What gets me is when people say that if you say you support the troops but not the war then you're unpatriotic and a hypocrite. I can't stand that. I have a right not to agree with the war and the soldier's are doing what their Commander in Chief has told them to do. They have to do that. That's what the military commands. Some don't believe in the war either, but they do what they're told. I don't have to agree with the president's choices, but I STILL can support the troops--individually or collectively.

I actively support the troops. I support veterans, servicemembers' families, and servicemembers too. More than a few friends of mine have been overseas--and not just from this country either. I spent more than 15 months biting my nails for my one friend and another 15 months doing the same for another friend. Sent loads of care packages, e-mail, letters..... kept in touch with SOs of the servicemember..... was a moderator on a military board for spouses, girlfriends, and family members..... and am involved in getting legal help for vets, servicemembers, and their families on a pro bono or reduced fee basis, whichever is appropriate.

And I can still feel a blow every time one of the DoD notices comes across my computer. I think about the servicemember, their family, and all who cared about them. I think about the loss they have suffered and the pain they have to go through because of it. I think about the kids who won't know their parent, the boyfriend/girlfriends who lose the one they were going to marry..... Unpatriotic? I don't think so. I've clapped in the airport when uniformed soldiers go by. The commercial that showed that occurred when my best friend was over there. It made me break down and cry. We should be supporting them. And I am proud that we are doing the opposite of what we did to the soldiers who were in Viet Nam. It's about time.

It galls me that in addition to the suicide rate that so many vets are homeless and returning soldiers are coming home to a hostile job market. The problems that affect this population isn't unique, but it is sad that we don't pay as much attention as we should.

The military recently removed the stigma of seeking mental health treatment, which is good. Before it could adversely affect security clearances. They claim that they're trying to reach out more. We'll see.....