Frankly, I don't think the official military holiday "recognition" celebrations are nearly enough recognition for what they were forced to do. Offical military holidays are all about the mawkish, maudlin, and superficial sentimentalizing of military service.

How about some veterans benefits instead? A true renewal of the GI Bill. Completely affordable and accessible health care for all veterans. Transitional housing and transitional vocational counseling and job placement upon discharge. Retraining programs for disabled veterans.

Thanks to those of you who have responded with best wishes for my dad.

And in case anyone is wondering if there is any organized opposition to the current No Child Left Behind military recruiting practices in high schools, the answer is: you bet!