A few months back the subject of the Iraq and Afghanistan veterans came up during the monthly Veterans of Foreign Wars meeting. American troops have been pulled out of Iraq; a few will remain for support, but mostly our troops have gone. The conflict in Afghanistan continues, and our soldiers lives are in jeopardy every hour of every day as long as we continue to support a government and a people that have no sense or control of itself or future direction. In my own opinion, both conflicts have lasted too long. The American public has lost touch with the goings on of war.
Could it be that the death of war has not touched every family like in wars past? Medical technology has saved many in uniform, and because it has, many citizens do not realize the true toll these wars have taken and continue their daily lives as if the wars do not exist. The bad things of war are what is reported in the news just like a shooting in Albuquerque or Denver, and before long we become distant to its reality. I think because we are a free country and we all have a choice in how we live our lives, and the choices we make during our lives, we can separate ourselves from serving our country. For those who have chosen to serve, the sacrifice has been great in many ways besides death.
The celebration and appreciation of a job well done has not yet come for the Iraq and Afghanistan fighting men and women. Parades and medals are not what an American fighting man or woman wants, but just some recognition for their efforts and doing their job. These and all veterans work for us, the American citizen. How many of you have worked in a thankless job, knowing your talent and skills are being wasted on a manager who only thinks of the bottom line? Where is the recognition for defending these United States of America or is the bottom line, independence and freedom at the sacrifice of a few? Trying to downplay my veteran status, I have been told you do not have to be a veteran to be a patriot. I wouldnt know I have been a veteran since the age of 19. If serving in politics is a comparison, I am glad I was a soldier.
Our Korean War and Vietnam veterans did not get the recognition they deserved after returning home. They did their jobs for a thankless mass and were shunned by the politicians of this country. No wonder the Iraq and Afghanistan veterans feel abandoned, lost and disillusioned. Your veteran brothers and sisters know how you feel. I know I have mentioned this in past articles, and I will continue to mention it until all veterans are recognized for their service and sacrifice.
Back to where I started this months column: The conversation at the VFW meeting spurred an idea that the veterans of the county should show the Iraq and Afghanistan veterans and their families that we do care and we wish to welcome them home. The idea was taken to the Disabled American Veterans and the American Legion for their thoughts and ideas. The idea was welcomed; how and when are we going to celebrate these veterans accomplishments?
The VFW will take the lead, with help from the other organizations. The third Saturday in May of each year is Armed Forces Day. This year it happens to be on the 19th of May. Being that this would be a county function, the fairgrounds seemed to be the most likely place to have a gathering. The annual dog show has been held at the fairgrounds on the same weekend for many years and will continue for now. Now that the VFW is a county post, it has been decided that the event will be held at the Montezuma County VFW Post 5231, 136 Grand Ave., Mancos. Now, how do we go about honoring these veterans? A parade? Guest speakers? The ideas have floated around with nothing sound coming to light. When family or friends come to visit, usually the host family provides breakfast. I know when my family gets together, breakfast is the most fun, relaxed meal we enjoy. Stories, laughter and fun make for very memorable times.
OK, so it may not be the ticker tape parade that we all envisioned at first. There will be no parade, no speakers; what we will offer is a breakfast and open house for all Iraq and Afghanistan veterans and their families. If you have a son or daughter serving in the armed forces you are also invited to attend. We, the Veterans of Montezuma County VFW, the American Legion and the DAV are asking all veterans to come and enjoy this breakfast with us. I know as a veteran it is hard sometimes for us to ask for help, even when we need it. OK, I am asking for your help to make this a successful event, not for me, but for you veterans.
Robert Valencia is a retired Army Sergeant First Class, member of the VFW, American Legion and the DAV. He can be heard at 8:30 a.m. the last Friday of every month on the Veterans Forum program on KSJD radio 91.5 FM.