Military servicemembers & veterans DU appreciation thread!

[MADem]

11. I always thank people who do a tough job.

IF they do with cheerfulness, verve, or panache, I thank them profusely and make a point to remark upon their enthusiasm and fortitude. I don't care if it's a garbageman or a wait-person, a porter or a handy man, a nursing home janitor or a cashier--people like to be appreciated, they like to be understood, and they never mind being thanked. It's no substitute for money, but it makes a rough day smoother.

When people thank servicemembers for their service, they are trying to say that they appreciate the sacrifices they have made--being deployed, being far from home, duty on holidays, moving every few years, all that not-so-fun stuff. They aren't worshiping anyone, they're expressing appreciation for and understanding of the difficulties and challenges of uniformed service.

I always found the best reply to "Thank you for your service" was "Thank you for your support." Oftentimes, you'll find out, if you chat a bit, that the thanker has a child or other loved one in uniform--by thanking you (or me), they are connecting with their own loved one.