Kudos to Buzz

[MKE_GoldenEagleFan]

Many of the vets I know do not seek out this type of attention, with that said, they certainly appreciate the honor though. I have no issue with these sorts of tributes, while the vets may not request them, I have no issue with thanking people for their sacrifice. If they don't want to participate it is very easy for them to decline the invitation, but that shouldn't stop people from thanking those willing to participate.

[Gato78]

My father-in-law never mentioned it at all, to anyone, until one of his grandchildren wanted to do a report for school. So he interviewed my father-in-law and it was fascinating. He was a very young guy who, with his commanding officer (lieutenant?), were the only survivors in his unit after one battle. He carried his lieutenant on his back, while wounded himself, several miles to get medical treatment. Never spoke about it. Never even acknowledged he was in the military for Veterans Day etc. He just moved on in life.

[pbiflyer]

Gato --

My grandfather was in the 75th and also fought in the bulge. He is/was also of the same exact school. May be a virtue of that generation. One thing has changed (& it has taken him a normal person's lifetime) but he now discusses the war openly and often. I think the VA system has been instrumental in that. He continues to engage and help other vets there.

My dad was in the Navy at Lyte Gulf delivering troops on a high speed transport, a converted Destroyer, similar to the one in the Caine Mutiny. His ship also had picket duty at Okinawa, essentially bait for the kamikazes.
He will answer very basic questions, but that is about it. Interestingly enough, he is writing down his story. No one can read it while he is walking this mortal coil though.

[IrwinFletcher]

I understand these gentlemen/heroes not wanting to heap praise upon themselves, that is what makes them true heroes.

But what Buzz did, in my mind, wasn't necessarily heaping praise and adulation on these Veterans, but teaching a generation that doesn't know and in some cases, isn't even taught about what these men and women did that has allowed all of us to lead such a charmed life.

I for one am tired of all the whining from kids (I have a frosh in college and a SR in HS) and I kinda think Buzz felt the same way. In his unique fashion, Buzz was trying to teach these 18-21 years olds that they have no idea what it is like to face adversity, similar to some of the stories above.

That is why Buzz should be applauded and I am hopeful that the young men learned something from this.

[IWB]

Agree Fletch - I understand those who do not care for the adulation, but without it, so many clueless people will never understand how we are able to live the way we do.

[wiscwarrior]

Agree Fletch - I understand those who do not care for the adulation, but without it, so many clueless people will never understand how we are able to live the way we do.

In addition it's more about those wanting to show their gratitude than veterans needing the gratitude shown. Having lived through the Viet Nam era all I can say is what a 180.