Hey, You a Vet?

I have been trying to teach my children (6 and 3) about veterans. They have gotten pretty good about recognizing the Veteran's hats worn primarily by our retired servicemen. When my children see such a hat being worn they approach the gentleman and say "Excuse me Sir, are you a Veteran?" More times than not I have to interpret for them. When the gentleman answers yes, the girls are to say "Thank You".

One day my youngest and I were in Wal-Mart trying to pull the country out of the recession single handily. As we were about to leave a heavy rain storm begun. So, along with about 30 people we hung out in the lobby area waiting. This is when my baby walks over to a gentleman wearing a Vietnam hat. In her most grown up voice and hand on her cocked hip, says "Hey,... you a Vet?" Now, if the clouds had opened at this time I would have gladly been ready to go. The gentleman, like the others, had been caught off guard and needed me to translate. He smiled down at my sweet baby and said "Yes, little girl, I am". She straighten up and gave him her best Pro Football pat on the rear and said....get ready...."Good Job!" I honestly believe that man cherished that above any medals he may have ever earned in his military career. That made his day, I am positive...and mine too.