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RE: Why Some Vets Don't Like hearing "Thank You For Your Service"
My brother is a vet, and I know that while he appreciates the acknowledgement, it also does make him uncomfortable - and he absolutely doesn't want to talk about it, except with his other army buddies. I figure that on the rare occasion he does say anything, the least I can do is listen carefully and not speak unless he seems willing to share more. I do let him know I'm grateful, both for his service, and also that he's my brother.
Listening is one of the best things you can do, if he does decide to share. No advice, no devils advocate... just good old fashioned listening.
I know some vets who get sick from being thanked because they've had a change of heart about the service and maybe even the country.
Imagine if you went to the military and suddenly felt that we were actually aggressors who are expansionists... and then you came home and everyone thanked you for helping the powers that buy to expand their control and reach even further than before?
I'm not saying that's the case here, just sharing what some of my other vets have expressed.