Veterans

When touching upon the topic of division classification in class, we read a lot of readings on war, and by extension, patriotism. After discussing in harkness circles, I thought it would be interesting to explore the different perspectives and notions about war and patriotism.

American society as a whole has dramatically changed their opinions of veterans in the last decade. While holidays such as Memorial Day, and Veterans Day still exist, many schools have stopped teaching students about the value of these days, many people now simply viewing them as another opportunity to get a day off. Veterans now lack a lot of the honor and respect that they once had. Veterans routinely face issues such as PTSD and extreme poverty upon returning home, without the vibrant support of their community.

Many citizens and especially the younger generation feel a resentment towards these people, and what they do. Since the Vietnam war, general opinion of the military has turned unfavorably. People who serve in the armed forces are often disrespected because of the policies they are forced to abide by. Carrying a bravery and love for our country, their service is brushed off and made fun of because of the policy makers pushing their popular or unpopular agenda. As the face of the disliked, they carry the burden emotionally and physically. They suffer for their selfless sacrifice, which is really unfair and is not focused on enough. While as a group, they may have shortcomings, it’s always important to understand the integral role they have played in our lives, and everything they’ve allowed us to have. People, like veterans, should not be judged because of the controveresial ideas they've had to support or work for, rather their purpose, intentions, and love for the country that we live in.