I read another
article today by an individual who is afraid of having returning combat veterans
in their neighborhood. They have a fear that the individual will snap and wreak
havoc upon their neighbors. I am sorry that we individuals who served and
sacrificed so much, are a nightmare that keeps these individuals awake at
night. Instead of cowering and clutching
your children to your breast when we pass, just say “Thank You.” You wouldn’t
have that giant SUV and over priced home if that man our woman had not stood
the line while you sat at home watching Oprah.
Instead of
worrying about what could happen, think about how that soldier could be a benefit
to your community. Neighborhood watch goes to a new level with vets around. You
know that your children are safe playing in the neighborhood when they are on
watch. Children are more important to soldiers than you might think. Even in
combat zones, we give them candy and presents. Many soldiers have died trying
to save the life of a child, even of our enemies. The health and welfare of a
child is more important than our own. Additionally, we are ever vigilant for
danger. It is ingrained in us from having to survive. Any strange people, or
vehicle, will quickly send up red flags. Remember, we are able to run up
mountains with an extra 80 pounds of gear on. That weirdo on the playground has
no chance.
Occasionally,
communities have problems with peeping toms, flashers, and other such wierdos.
It is hard for the police to always catch these pervs. Have your husband’s go
over and buy the monster a few cold beers. They can explain the problem and ask
his help. I’ll bet they have a wife, daughters, or even a mother. I am sure
they will love the excitement of the idea. We’ll never turn down an opportunity
to cammo up and hide in the darkness. It gets even better because there is a
chance of jumping from concealment and scaring some dirt bag to death. I’ll
apologize early for any traps your husband may trip while walking the dog at
night. Those flare trip wires will give you a headache. Just make sure your
spouses don’t ask to help. You don’t want to have to deal with a 5 A.M. boot
camp going on through your streets. They can’t go to combat without training
after all.
Veterans are also
great for getting rid of pests as well. No, I’m not talking about you daughter’s
boyfriend. There are too many laws about that. My neighbors have used me
several times when a rabid groundhog, opossum, or raccoon have made an unwanted
appearance. Most combat soldiers have no quam about putting down a sick animal.
It is far better than the suffering it has to go through. Don’t think we missed
the shot if you hear 2 shots. It’s just the training. You have to make sure it
is dead and dead again. For a cold beer or bratwurst, we’ll even dispose of the
carcass for you. We know some of you suburbanites are a little squeamish about
that.
If you live in the
country, we can even be more help. Sometimes we may go a little overboard. Don’t
ask us to put up a fence without specifications. You might end up with triple strand
concertina wire, a four foot tall berm, or both with a tank ditch added in for
good measure. When asking us to remove a stump, make sure you specify no
explosives. Without that specification, you might have a crater that you can
park your truck in.
Let’s not forget
those combat medics and surgeons. They are a plus to have in the neighborhood.
They can treat everything from a headache to a sucking chest wound. You may say
you don’t need that much experience. I beg to differ. Remember when Mr. Jones
came home with lipstick on his collar at 1 A.M. Yep the medic would have when
he ran out of the house screaming with that meat thermometer sticking out of
his backside. Just don’t be surprised if the have you clear out a landing zone
and call in for a medevac.
Veterans are not the monsters I the closet. We
do have problems and issues. So does the beauty pageant mom and the workaholic
dad. Don’t shoot fireworks at our homes or yell “Incoming.” We will be fine.
Treat us as your neighbors and friends. All we every want is to come home and
live our lives enjoying our families and working hard. Give us a smile and
wave. That goes a long way.
