One of my friends is 23 years old, and he is a war veteran. He served in Afghanistan for 2 years, and just finished his freshman year of college. Last November, we had classes on Veterans Day. On a day that was meant to honor those like him that have fought for their country, he had to go to class and take an exam. The dean even sent out an email to the entire school, suggesting that we remember those that had served that day, by visiting the nearby veterans' hospital, etc.
Another good friend from high school was sent to Iraq 3 weeks ago. It's the first time in 75 years that the Maryland National Guard has been called to active duty.
So here's to both my grandfathers, who have been honored for when they fought on D-Day, and to Jay, who will have to wait until the perception of veterans changes before he gets the respect he deserves.
Like a firework unexploded
Wanting life but never
knowing how