Thanks, but there are a lot more people deserving of your appreciation than I. I didn't do much.
You did your duty honorably. No one can ask for more.
It's the little guys doing what they are supposed to do that make it all work. DOn't underestimate yourslef, or the value of your service, in whatever form it takes.
The world is run by those who show up. You showed up. You stayed. You served with Honor. Guys like you are what makes this country great.