To Those Who Serve..... Thank You!

I have always admired those who serve others. Whether it's serving in a soup kitchen, opening the door for a stranger, or choosing to serve others in a career such as nursing or in our nation's military. It is these latter individuals who have stood out to me most as examples of how to serve others. Nurses Announcements Archive Article

To Those Who Serve..... Thank You!

I once had dreams of serving our country and fighting for the freedoms many of us take for granted. This dream was fostered by my family, from which 4 generations have served proudly. I even made it as far as taking the ASVAB test and meeting with a recruiter.

After my score posted I met again with the recruiter ready to begin a journey that had been on my heart for years. As we were finishing our meeting, the recruiter asked one last question that surprised me and that I had not considered. He simply stated, "tell me about your eye".

I hesitated for a moment and then informed him that I had been blind in that eye since birth. Even before I answered I knew it was the end of my dream. I truly had never given any thought that my "disability" (I don't view it as one) would ever prevent me from pursuing any of my dreams. I was devastated. I would be a part of the generation that failed to continue our family's service.

Twelve years would pass before I would find a place to serve where I would be proud to put my name behind; the field of nursing. While there will always be a disappointment - and to be honest a little anger - about not being able to serve alongside the amazing men and women in our military, I am forever grateful of those of you who serve.

Not only do you serve our country, you spend yourselves for the health and safety for others. I have a friend who served in the Army as a combat medic/RN and through him I know what kind of person it takes to fulfill that role.

It is not for the fainthearted nor is it for the selfish and conceited. To give of oneself so fully for the benefit of others requires compassion, humility, courage, and strength. I would have been honored to have walked beside you on this journey and fought for all that I believe in. Though, in the end, I was unable.

I often wonder what life would have been like had things turned out differently however; as I have grown I now understand that the man I have become - a man whom I am proud of - would never have existed. I would not have met my wife nor would I have the 2 amazing children I am so proud of.

My father - who has since passed - spent many years being cared for in VA hospitals by both military nurses as well as civilians. I witnessed firsthand the dedication of the nurses to help and support our veterans through some of their most difficult times.

I have seen men and women who have served, fight with honor and integrity as their health deteriorated. Words fail to convey the deep appreciation and respect I have you those who have served. I have accepted the fact that I will never serve in the military however, my conviction and resolve, my pride and my gratitude will never cease. I am humbled by your service and I am honored to be a recipient of it.

Serving others first,

Aaron

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VintageSwagger

About VintageSwagger

VintageSwagger has 4 years experience and works as an RN - NICU IV.

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Specializes in EMS, ED, Trauma, CEN, CPEN, TCRN.

Aaron, have you thought about working for the VA or in a military hospital? That might be a happy medium for you. :)

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Specializes in Psychiatric/ Mental Health.

I love this post! Love love LOVE IT!

I dreamed of serving in the military after high school, was going to join the USMC, but 9/11 happened, and my family pursuaded me not to join.

Years later, I'm an RN, working at the VA. The men and women I served as a civilian nurse were so thankful for the care provided to them. Many times whena vet was d/c'ed, I would get hugs, handshakes, and the most sincere thanks ever. You will never feel more appreciated for the work you do as an RN than you will while working at the VA.

Presently, I'm working out, and getting in shape so I can serve as an Air Force nurse with a specialty in mental health. It would be my honor, a joy, and a wonderful privilege to serve along side others who desire to become serve and sacrifice. Though the AF is but one branch of the military, I feel that all men and women who've served have a respect for each other. I want to be apart of this community, and become a memebr of the worlds largest family. I'm so excited. Yes, thank you to you all who've served, and who are currently serving and protecting our liberty. We salute you all!

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