On Christmas Eve, I was anxiously waiting at the United Airlines arrival gate to greet my brother, whom I had not seen for three years. I noticed a war-weary soldier coming from Afghanistan, still in his camouflage uniform. He had a tired look in his eyes that suddenly brightened as his young son, about five years old, came running up to him. “Daddy, daddy. Welcome home, daddy!”
This was followed by his adoring wife and other family members as they welcomed home a man who had sacrificed for his country. It was a touching scene.
As they exited the UAL terminal, I abandoned my luggage cart and ran up to the veteran and handed him what I had in my pocket, a $20 bill, and said, “Thank you for your service. Treat your family to some good old-fashioned American burgers!”
They were happily surprised. I quickly left and ran back to the arrival terminal to retrieve my luggage cart.
My holiday wish for all you folks out there is this:
If you should happen to see a veteran this holiday season, do something nice or say something nice to thank them for their service in this “forgotten war.”
If they are at a lunch counter, tell the waitress that their meal will be paid for by someone who appreciates what they have done.
If you can't do that, just acknowledge them and say “Thank you for your service,”
Happy New Year, and to be politically correct, Happy Holidays!
Mr. Zirgulis may be contacted at zirgulisr@yahoo.com
