Say thanks to a vet today

Until recently I operated a military museum in Antique Market I in St. Charles. In celebration of Veteran's Day 2010 I want to share some of the many heart warming comments left in our guest book. They are proof that patriotism is as strong as ever in America.

“Proud to be an American ... Thank you for these treasured memories of Veterans' sacrifices for our freedom ... All who fought for freedom deserve our greatest thanks ... Your display truly touches our heart ... God Bless the USA, Iraq vet ... Thanks for the freedom we enjoy and which we should never take for granted ... I support our troops! ... Thanks for remembering us, Vietnam vet 1971 ... Great tribute to our brave men and women who have honorably served ... Thank you for this display of American patriotism ... It is easy to forget, thank you ... My World War II Dad would have loved this ... We never should forget our war heroes ... I have worked in VA hospitals for 31 years, I've seen the price of freedom on our Vet's faces and absence of limbs ... God love all the veterans ... War is devastating but needs to be documented for future generations ... We will be back with our children ... (and from a small girl) Dear Owner, why do country's fight? Love, Angie. (I wish I had an answer for Angie.)

In World War II 16 million American men and women served and those who survive today have an average age of 87. They are dying at a rate of 6,000 per week. Therefore, on this Veteran's Day, find a vet and shake his or her hand, and simply say, “Thanks for our Freedom.”

Steve Thompson

St. Charles