In Truth

Most veterans signed up for the need of a job, the promise of a career, educational opportunities, and medical care. Once in combat, each immediately forgot everything promised, including our duty, “the red, white, and blue,” and even the Constitution.

Instead, frightened but well-trained and armed, each fought only to survive, as did the soldier, sailor, Marine, and airman at their side. Each came away humbled yet ashamed of selfishness and fear, growing a sense of guilt around “why me?” upon returning to the World.

Those who survived the battle understand they have never been unsworn from the initial duty “to protect and defend…from all foreign and domestic enemies.” And should an uncivil war come, each will again forget the flag and the Constitution, leaning on the other and their experience to fight for what is dear — family.