A Narrative
Yesterday I had the honor of joining thousands of fellow veterans in our nations capital to honor our fallen brothers and sisters, not just from the wars from after 9/11, but those from Vietnam, WWII, and other conflicts. The mood was humbling and somber, yet joyous. We weren’t there to mourn but rather to celebrate the lives of these brave men and women who gave the ultimate sacrifice to protect the freedoms of this country.
A journalist from NBC asked me, “What is it like to be surrounded by so many other vets from different conflicts?” This question seems simple for civilians to ask yet when I stood there in front of the camera I was at a loss for words. I knew that he meant the veterans walking around giving each other hugs and welcoming each other home but for me it was about the sacred ground that millions of Americans walk on each year. The memorials, the statues and the monuments that stand tall and proud are what impacted me the most. After a long pause, I looked up at the camera and said, “Sir, today, where we are, is the most humbling experience of my life.” I had traveled to the Vietnam Veterans War Memorial to read the name of my best friend who lost his life in Iraq. I was there to honor my brothers and sisters in arms, with all the dignity and respect that my body, values, and morals commanded. Memorial Day is not about barbeques or drinking with friends – yes that’s a part of it – but the underlying message behind it should be to honor those brave men and women.
As the morning progressed I found myself looking around and trying not to focus on reading my friends name because each time I thought about it I was getting choked up. However, every time I fought that feeling I felt empty again. I couldn’t suppress the despair that had long built inside of me and, likely, every veteran. I remembered the words from a friend of mine, “This experience [reading names] is not closure but it is a way to honor the life of your friend.” My friend was right!
As the ceremony began many distinguished people spoke including Secretary of Defense Chuck Hagel. A Gold Star Mother gave a somber speech telling us the story of her son, an Army Ranger, who was one of the first two casualties from Afghanistan. Even though this event took place thirteen years ago she spoke with such emotion that it was an honor to hear her. Listening gave me a strength I didn’t know I had. For the rest of the day I focused on two things: reading as many names as I could and advocating on behalf of Dog Tag Development.
I read 75 names at different points between 9:00 a.m. and 2:30 p.m. and as I read each name I felt the warmth of their spirits giving me renewed strength.
My second mission was to push the mission of Dog Tag Development, Inc. I was able to speak with GEN (Ret.) David Patraeus, who awarded me my Purple Heart as well as Australian Air Commodore Gary Martin about the importance of getting all veterans back to work! They echoed our vision in our conversations and commended us for the work we are doing. Our passion for helping veterans is another way to honor those who have given the ultimate sacrifice. I know that if my friend was here today he would look up to us for devoting our lives to making the world a better place through education for veterans.
As the day started to wind down and veterans came and went, it was surreal and humbling. Each of us faces struggles, challenges, opportunities, and difficulties, yet we adapt and overcome. Just as we have lived through the perils of war, combat, and death, we can overcome the high rate of veteran’s unemployment. Dog Tag Development is fully dedicated to providing all veterans the opportunity to receive a meaningful software development education. We may not be able to change the world, but we will impact the lives of those who chose to join our mission.
So, this Memorial Day, take a moment of silence to honor those who have paid the ultimate price. I will never forget those who gave their lives for our freedom.