written by David McMinn to his wife Dee 11/11/2014
Dee –
You know, us Veterans have a special day here to kind of “catch up” on the countries appreciation for our service but, throughout all this rather new found wave of recognition there is a group of Veterans that have more or less gone unheralded – its the military wives of the servicemen who have center stage today. There is a recognition deserved here, especially for those wives who endured the three “W’s” (waiting, wondering and worrying) that was part of having your guy involved in an active war zone – you, and those like you, are the silent heroes whose love, courage, and endurance kept us guys inspired, in touch, and knowing that we were defending more than just a country even though we were on the other side of the world.
In reflection I can’t tell you how much that meant to those of us lucky enough to have the strength that you wonderful ladies infused us with – it gave us an advantage that those without didn’t have. So Dear Heart, for having served your country in that quiet way, for the loving good-byes and the exuberant hello’s, for enduring the emotional distress for 16 out of 21 months of the Vietnam experience, for the pure courage and strength that you showed me for the entire four years from 1966 to 1970 and supporting me through the issues that resulted, I salute you, thank you, respect you, and most certainly love you. Semper Fi.
Note: There is also a recognition deserved by the children and families of us Veterans – in the Vietnam era their love and support was crucial at a time when the respect given in this day and age wasn’t available – a “thumbs up” with my love and appreciation to all of mine.
what a thoughtfully sweet letter!