The horror of war, a vet's finest hour

When Americans think of wars, they like to think of patriotism and glory, of flags and of bands playing soul stirring songs, of parades filled with marchers in smart uniforms and white gloves and chests filled with colorful ribbons.

But when a combat veteran thinks of wars, he or she remembers the bombs booming, the bullets zinging, the grenades fragging, the planes crashing, the ships sinking, and waters filled with floating seamen, some alive and many not.

Somebody once said, "War is hell!" and it is.

But if you were to ask any of the men or women, living or dead, who served in combat if they wish they had not served, you'd better brace yourself.

Their resounding "No's!" would knock you back on your heels. They know it was it was their finest hour. And now you do too.

Joseph Russell Vannier

Hoffman Estates