Have you ever felt awkward when someone says, “Thank you for your service?” I was a nuclear missile launch officer. We were trained that our country’s position was to launch in retaliation only. And if we launched, we could expect our family and friends, and probably millions of U.S. citizens, could likely die.

While visiting a veterans museum I mentioned to the volunteer with no legs how sometimes I felt a little awkward (even guilty?) when someone thanked me for my service when I wasn’t disabled. He got angry with me! He pointedly and loudly told me I should be ashamed for even thinking that way because it cheapened what I and disabled veterans had done for our country.

His message was loud and clear: Everyone who does or had served in any capacity for any of the uniformed services provide a critical service protecting our freedoms. Also the families of the service member must be given the same respect for they too serve. He stated that all veterans, regardless of their assignment, are aware of what I did and that I was ready to support them if needed and their sacrifices were no more significant than mine could have been!

I learned a valuable lesson. When someone thanks you for your service accept it, then pass it to your loved ones. A veteran who refuses, denies or feels guilty for not being disabled, get over it! And know it’s okay to be thankful for your non-disability.

Gary Carlsen

Spokane