Bismarck/Mandan – Should Be “Veterans Day” 365 Days A Year

On a crisp sunny Tuesday afternoon, I walked out our front door and walked over to the flag waving up high

The wind this afternoon is making our national flag dance, proudly saluting all those who have served in the U.S. Armed Forces - both living and deceased. I am one of so many who sometimes take for granted what we have in this country, freedom. We all should think about this EVERY DAY, not just on Veterans Day, that freedom doesn't come without a price. I was taught by my parents always to honor and show respect for those who put on a uniform, and of course, those who have worn one in the past.

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"Excuse me, can I have a hug?"

I can still see this image in my head of my mom years ago, approaching a young man in a military uniform, no matter where we were, "Excuse can I have a hug?" - which was always followed with "Thank you so much for your service". I loved watching the immediate smiles from those people my mom reached out to. I'll never forget the one time in a Starbucks in San Diego, she saw a middle-aged gentleman in uniform, she quickly went over and reached out once again, "Excuse me, thank you for your service, may I have a hug?". The man's reply was even swifter, "Well, I'm a mailman, but you're welcome" - another humble hug from my mom was delivered. Here in Bismarck/Mandan, we should all be grateful.

I am proud to carry on what my mom taught me

I will always reach out to anyone and thank them for their service, I believe showing respect should be as normal as a simple smile and handshake. ( I won't scare people by asking for a hug :) ) - Veterans Day should be 365 days a year.