The Gratitude Campaign

Friday, January 4, 2008

The Gratitude Campaign is a public service campaign to encourage average citizens to thank the members of our Armed Forces when they see them in public places.

I really like this idea. While I certainly can't claim to speak for all veterans, I like it when people make a small effort to recognize that I made sacrifices for my service.

For myself, I usually try to thank the vets I see without them knowing it. For example, if I see a person in uniform sitting down at an airport restaurant for a bite to eat, I'll pay for their meal and tell their waitperson to tell them "thanks for your service" after I've already walked away. Or I'll pay for a service member's haircut if I happen to be in the shop when they come in. I think little anonymous gestures like that go a long way in helping our service men and women feel that the people they serve appreciate them.

In fact, today at the grocery store I ran into a WWII vet. In this case, I did thank him in person. He got tears in his eyes.

Details on this program can be found on www.gratitudecampaign.org. Thanks to my brothers and sisters-in-arms!

3 comments:

Jeri said...

That's very cool!

I always get the happy chills when I walk through the Anchorage airport - the crowd at security claps & cheers for every uniformed service member who comes through the portal.

And Janiece, Jim & Shawn - thank YOU. :)

Janiece said...

Jeri, you're most welcome.

My friend "signonthedottedline" is also a retire Navy gal. So thanks to you, also, Amy!

Cindi in CO said...

Our Hot Mom sent me this link as well, and I think it's a terrific idea. My Smart Man and I thank service members in person whenever we see them, and while yes, it can be akward, it's always worth it.

And J, J, S and A? Thank you all so much.