He ambled through the aisle of the convenience store. His hat read “Veteran: World War II.” I beamed at him, as I do at most elderly people, and he stopped moving in order to really smile back. He was shorter than I, wearing beige suspenders, navigating the store with a cane. I thanked him for his service and asked, if he didn’t mind my asking, where was he deployed during the War? He was in the Pacific. I sighed, I could feel my eyebrows gathering down over my now-watery eyes. He drove a boat that took the troops to shore. He spent his 18th and 19th birthdays on invasions. He loitered by the Gatorade. I fought the urge to hug him or see if he wanted to tag along to Nebraska. Friendly has a fine line.
In the parking lot later, he labored to get into his pickup. He hoisted himself up, leaned in, leaving his cane behind, then once firmly in his seat he craned out to grasp the handle of the cane. He placed it in the seat as a passenger. He could feel me watching him. I kept my grin wide and politely affectionate, since I didn’t want him to think I was strange. Or, bad strange. I started my car, he started his. We shared a quick departing wave of gratitude.
–Snyder, Colorado
Elsewhere in Colorado…
Beautifully written – he reminded me of my father!!
Oh, it is remarkable to meet Veterans from World War II. My brother is an Iraq War veteran, so I’ve got a soft spot for such experiences. Thank you, Clanmother.
And thank you!!! You always touch my heart.
Absolutely lovely post!
You also made me think of my father. I thought–gee, if that were in the years when dad still drove his truck everywhere and didn’t get around, well–I hope a young woman gave him an affectionate smile and took the time to chat awhile. My dad, he refused to use a cane until near the end — said it would scare his old cow pony. His reasoning always made me laugh. This is a great post.
I make a point to thank those who served in past conflicts (World War II, Korea, and Vietnam predominantly) and it often catches them by surprise. I honestly feel that they don’t look at their “service” in the same manner as we do today. I forward that they, more than my generation, endured much greater hardships; and yet, they carry on with a quite acceptance that, to me, commands respect. Almost without exception they avoid recognition (save their respective hats and pins) and I have yet to understand the differences between our generations. All I can gather is that public support (to include our government) must make a substantial difference in how they perceived the duties they shouldered. This makes your acknowledgement to this individual all the more important. Thank you.
I make a point to thank those who served in past conflicts (World War II, Korea, and Vietnam predominantly) and it often catches them by surprise. I honestly feel that they don’t look at their “service” in the same manner as we do today. I forward that they, more than my generation, endured much greater hardships; and yet, they carry on with a quite acceptance that, to me, commands respect. Almost without exception they avoid recognition (save their respective hats and pins) and I have yet to understand the differences between our generations. All I can gather is that public support (to include our government) must make a substantial difference in how they perceived the duties they shouldered. This makes your acknowledgement to this individual all the more important. Thank You
Beautiful point! Yes, usually the reply is, “That was a long time ago!” Then I think of how much they have seen, and how much they have carried with them. I guess that’s why I roll my eyes when politicians call themselves public servants. Were you ever in a real trench? Ever gone without ample food and water? Ever had such weight decisions to make before breakfast? Sorry, Senator, it’s different. It’s apples and escargot.
Such a lovely thing to do. I will remember to do the same!
It’s a nice way to gather new stories too.
And remind us all to do a little appreciating. Excellent!
Beautiful
Thank you.