Veterans Day is one of my favorite days of the year. As a veteran who served eight years in the USAF, this day gives me a chance to take advantage of some specials that are often available only on November 11 (or a couple of days surrounding it).
I know many are aware of the sacrifices made by the men and women serving our nation. Here’s my story: I enlisted in the Air Force in 1981 as a college student. I knew I would never make it straight through to a degree, so I joined the “family business” and headed off to basic training.
From there I went to tech school and received my first active duty assignment … a remote tour for one year in Thule, Greenland. Yep, that’s north of the Arctic Circle … we often joked that Mr. and Mrs. Claus were our neighbors.
After Thule, it was off to San Vito dei Normanni Air Station in southern Italy. While there, I was sent by medevac to Germany to give birth to my daughter (the base didn’t have a hospital, only a clinic). When she was born, I got four weeks off until I had to return to work full-time.
A 13-month tour to Delaware was next before I was sent back overseas for another three-year tour of duty. This time I was stationed in Frankfurt, Germany.
Years later, when I got a job with the Federal Government, I had to apply for a “statement of earnings” to buy back my military time so it would count towards my retirement. My total earnings for my time in uniform came to just a hair over $80,000 — in EIGHT YEARS! Add to that the fact that only one year of my time on active duty was in the US, you can see the sacrifice. Honestly, I had it easy! I didn’t see combat like many of those who served just after I left active duty. Except for Greenland, I was able to have my daughter with me wherever I was stationed.
I loved my time in uniform. I still have mine tucked away in a trunk. I’ve learned how to say, “you’re welcome” when someone thanks me for my service. I’m not looking for praise or thanks, but it’s nice when big companies recognize the sacrifices my brothers and sisters in arms have made. So … I am grateful to them for the Veterans Day specials and thrilled to be able to share those with my fellow Vets … CLICK HERE! (Link takes you to an official Veterans Administration site.)
It’s a day early, but I wanted to get these discounts out to those of you who served and to give those of you who didn’t the chance to share it with your vet friends and family.
There’s a whole world out there just waiting to be explored. Thank a vet for your freedom.
© The World A to Z, LLC 2022 — Unless otherwise indicated, no compensation was received for this blog.
The World A to Z 
Thank you so much for your serve!
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