Story helped elevate women veterans

Thinking of my previous letter that was published in the Herald in August, I realize that I haven't fully thanked the wonderful people involved - such as Doug Graham, reporter, Patrick Kunzer, photographer, the staff at the Daily Herald and, of course, Gene Smalley, for the gift of the hat printed with "Woman Veteran," which I am proud to wear,

I am thankful to the many people who contacted me, sent anonymous gifts and treated me with such respect. You have all contributed to a good change in my life.

I have received a year free membership for the American Legion, due to Commander Bauer. The article has also resulted in many appearances and my history involved in presentations and other special occasions. People recognize me and thank me for my service.

Thanks to the newspaper, I am now a forerunner for women veterans everywhere to gain respect for our service and recognition for giving time during our life for our country.

Sometimes it wasn't easy. At other times it was gracious acknowledgment that we were and are in use to keep our country as beautiful and wonderful as it is. Our service was needed at the time and women across the country rose to the occasion. We answered the call and responded. Kudos to all woman veterans.

We did not enlist to free the men to go into combat. We enlisted to be a partner to the men to keep our country safe and work with each other to that end. It was a privilege and an honor to be of service to America The Beautiful.

I am happy that I could give a couple of years of my life serving. Again, a gracious thank you to the Daily Herald, and to the many women and men who are currently in the military.

Semper Fi!

Veronica S. Potter

Barrington