In fact, that question has never occurred to me when I learn I am speaking with a veteran. The deeper emotion which surfaces is an expression of gratitude for their sacrifice. I remember when quite young a friend who had been a happy, loving, open young man returned from Vietnam after serving his draft obligation. He was never ever the same following immersion into the cesspool of carnage.

Cannot debate the necessity of conflict to satisfaction without delving into political recriminations, while those who pay the price of service must always bear the cost of having served. Two things of which I am aware deeply, had patriots not risen to the fray there would be no United States of America and far later a maniacal Austrian would have continued to lead Germany through its reign of death.

Thus humbly to any veteran I offer thanks for their service and sacrifice.