What does Veterans Day mean to me, a son and an uncle of 2 family members in the military?

Veterans Day – a time to pay tribute and honor those who serve, and those who’ve served, and are still with us. Remember, Veterans Day, and Memorial Day are different.  Memorial Day is to reflect and remember those who lost lives in service to their country.  Confusing the two or combining the two diminishes the importance of both.  As we express our appreciation on Veterans Day, many will find ways to celebrate and remember the sacrifices made by those in uniform in a manner that’s personal. A Friend, Relative, or Neighbor who served comes to mind as we take a moment to reflect on what that person did to serve our Nation.

There’s actually a long line of those who served within my family tree and maybe yours too! Veterans Day means that we pause to remember those who came before us as well as those currently in uniform. Our rich history preserved by the stories they tell, which can be passed on from generation to generation. Many this week commented to me directly, or via social media their almost “shocked” reaction to our US presidential election.  This veterans day, I want to thank all those who’ve served, and say, as many others have, how grateful I am for our hard fought freedoms, that include the democracy we cherish, and to have a chance to vote, good bad or indifferent.

Today, I honor my father, Roger Vogelzang, who was an United State Air Force Captain, and a USAF physician, during the Korean Conflict, some would call war, but which ended in a cease fire. My nephew, Wyatt Vogelzang is currently serving in the US Marine Corp.

To all Veterans – past, present, and future – I salute you, and thank you for your service.