Things Veterans Carry For Life
Dear Editor,
I wanted to step back from the usual ranting about politics and share something that I know all veterans, R & D alike, can relate to. This is a salute to all who have worn the uniform of the American military at one time or another.
I found this is an article on a military/veteran website and have to say this one is so, so true.
In the back of every veteran’s closet, you’re likely to find some old uniforms, dusty caps, a stack of medical, training and discharge records – maybe a few ribbons or medals. But these are just a few of the typical things that separated or retired service members keep with them. Other things, they’re stuck with forever.
So we compiled a list of the more non-traditional things that veterans carry for life.
An incessant need to roll socks
Bad knees
The misguided idea that ibuprofen and fresh socks will cure any ailment
Tinnitus. Znnnnnnnnng.
The ability to sleep anywhere
The plight of not being able to sleep at all
Old combat boots. They’re great for mowing the lawn or a trip to Home Depot.
Fear of tape tests
Issues with authority figures
Back pain
T-shirts from strange events and places they don’t remember going
A woobie that has seen better days.
A swearing problem that is FUBAR
A love/hate relationship with acronyms
Total disdain for PowerPoint
Scars from barracks shenanigans gone awry
A few ugly divorces
A truck they bought after gaining some sense and selling that Camaro they financed at 27% APR
Some weird strip club stories
Sleep apnea
Bad tattoos that seemed like a really good idea at the time
Boxy brown T-shirts that somehow have sweat stains in a different, more gross shade of brown
A deeply stained, never-before-washed coffee mug that they tell everyone is “seasoned”
To all that have worn the uniform, I hope you enjoyed this and in spite of the ugly things that may have happened during your service brought a sigh and a smile.
Alan Marshall
SFC, RET, USA
Gun Shows Better Than Rap
Dear Editor,
Several need to be indicted in this blatant misuse of taxpayers funds. Not only should Greensboro citizens have the right to choose what events they attend, think about the loss of revenue from concessions and parking due to a few biased views.
In my opinion, the Greensboro Gun Show is much more wholesome for a family than a “Rap Crap” concert were illegally smoking weed is tolerated.
Are you aware of the memorabilia and history of artifacts from our country’s heroes and veteran’s that is sold here?
Bet Nancy Vaughan and or Matt Brown has never attended a Greensboro Gun Show? Why, it’s politically incorrect? Much like Ukraine, a strong militia is most valuable to a country being stripped of its rights. Vote these bullies out of office on Tuesday!
Jim Donaldson
Great letter Alan! Reminds me very much of my father. I think he carries most of those on your list. The rolled up socks…has been his pet peeve for my entire life. Nice to see you write something other than a rant.
Thank you Chris
Jim,
Indicted for what crime? It was a choice that doesn’t require voter approval. Use it as a shout out to turn over existing leadership this election cycle sure. But indicted? So much hyperbole over a small issue given there are any number of gun shows you can attend near by and you have no real sense of why Matt turned away the GSO coliseum gun show.