Never evoke me again

[Wounded Bear]

9. I always feel a little weird when people say "Thanks for your service"...

As a Marine who was on active duty during Vietnam but didn't actually go there, I didn't really 'sacrifice' a lot personally. In many ways, I got a lot back from it, including a career that lasted most of my adult life. Usually, when out and about, I wear a hat that proclaims my service so there's an easy 'fix' to that. I suppose subconsciously I like it, but whatever.

Any more, it has started to feel like an affectation, one of those reflex actions people do like share meaningless platitudes at tough times.

Mostly, I reply with 'thanks for noticing' and try to keep moving. But the oath I swore back in July 1977 still applies and yeah, shit like the story that triggered this response hits home. Trump has no regard for the 'niceties' of oaths given and fulfilled. He has no honor. That's the core reason why I hate him.