Veterans

A few moments ago I went to the Commissary to buy some groceries. As I was walking in a veteran in a wheelchair was sitting in front of a table requesting monetary support for disabled veterans. I told him I would draw out some cash and come back when I had finished shopping. I purchased my items and came back to see the veteran. I placed the money in a jar and he thanked me for serving. I told him it was I who should be doing the thanking. He handed me a small blue cloth flower which said simply "Forget-Me-Not." As I shook his hand, thanked him for his service, and that America owed him its deepest respect. He tried to stand up from his wheelchair and hug me. He began to fall so I awkwardly and clumsily tried to help him sit back down. He tried to stand up again and clung to my arms for balance. I again had to help him sit and this time I leaned over and hugged him. I thanked him again, gathered up my groceries, and left for the parking lot. I was crying by the time I reached my truck. I am so blessed to be part of an organization that has such outstanding men. I felt so proud as I drove away to be so readily accepted by men who have done far more than I ever have. Even after becoming disabled, this man, and many other veterans across the country, still look after their own and continue to serve and help soldiers. I believe they encompass what is described in the book of John 15;13. "Greater love hath no man than this, that a man lay down his life for his friends."