The stories of patriots

As someone who was raised in a military family, I understood service to country. I followed in my father's footsteps. I have married a wonderful man, who also followed his father into military service. I am mindful of their sacrifices protecting this country. Yet, I feel I cannot say "thank you" enough as we approach Veterans Day.

I have found myself in a unique situation. It seems that when I am on post waiting in the pharmacy, I am amongst some of the most amazing men and women – those who are currently protecting our country and those who have served during Vietnam and even a few from World War II.

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While most people are complaining about the wait in the pharmacy waiting area, I seize the opportunity to first give my ticket to the veterans. "Why?" you ask. Well, we give our Active Duty priority so that they can return to work. I feel we should be giving our veterans the same privilege.

The waiting area has a TV that is usually set to Headline News. On occasion those waiting will see a segment about the military and we all get to talking. It is a perfect way for me to ask our heroes of their military service, of their thoughts on the world today.

I find they are shocked that someone would give them their place in line. They are equally bewildered that a stranger would engage them in conversation about their history. It is within those few minutes that you can fill that bit of hunger for history from those who served the red, white and blue.

Oddly enough, I now look forward to picking up my prescriptions. I never know who I might meet while I wait.

As I pull out of the military hospital, I drive through the cemetery. I say a quiet prayer each time, thinking they all had a story to tell. Most importantly, as I see the grave markers it leaves me with great pride at all those who chose to serve this amazing country.

It is at this moment that the past and the present merge. Men and women who have given the ultimate sacrifice – I cannot thank them personally. Their duty to country has inspired me to seize every opportunity to speak with our veterans, to ask for their story and thank them for their service.

It is with pride that I celebrate this holiday. It is with great admiration and respect that I celebrate these patriots every day of the year.

I dedicate this to all those who have served and continue to serve, my husband, Lt. Col. David Del Favero, currently in Iraq, my father-in-law, retired Lt. Col. Robert Del Favero, and to my father, the late Col. Gordon S. Bounds, USAF.

Michele Del Favero