Veterans Day used to just be a day off. A day to eat tuna sandwiches and go to the beach. It was a "holiday." I've never been aware of what it meant to honor people on Veterans Day...until Raliegh Scott called me.
"How are you, Brooker?" I immediately felt elated as I heard my best friend's voice. "RALIEGH!!!! OH MY GOSH, HOW ARE YOU?!" I was spitting on the phone from sheer excitement. Raliegh Scott signed up for the Army in April. He is from Star Valley, Wyoming and grew up on a farm...a legit cowboy. He hunts, ride horses and prides himself on tight jeans and his accent. Signing up for the Army seemed out of his comfort zone--why would this outgoing, down-to-earth student sign up for the rigid army? Talking to him that night made me realize--inside everyone is a love for our country.
Students at Boise State University held a rememberance on Veterans Day. They gave speeches, played patriotic music and respected those still serving and those who have passed. I had the opportunity to perform at a Rexburg Veterans Day celebration here as well. It was so wonderful to watch the men stand and say the Pledge of Allegience. With my jazz band, we serenaded the crowd and shared mutual feelings. It was so different for me; I was actually not viewing this as a holiday but as a day to think about what others have done for ME.
Talking to Raliegh on Veterans Day was special. He and the other men got the day off. He sounded somber on the phone. He graduated Army training camp a few weeks ago; therefore, last week was the first time I really got to talk to him (they weren't allowed to have cell phones). He's now in Oklahoma being trained in the artilery department...I guess his hunting skills have come back to help him.
I appreciated so greatly the example Boise State displayed by taking the time and effort to honor men and women that helped shaped our country.
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