There seems to be some stratification at play here. I don’t mean to denigrate ANYBODY’S service, but this what I see. At the highest level, there are Combat veterans, and rightfully so. Then there are active duty, but not combat, veterans. Next are reservists not called to active duty. On the low rung are National Guard.
I find this distressing. As a former Marine, there is no distinction between one Marine or another. We are all the same. Yet, when a combat veteran is in the crowd, respect is due and given.
I myself have a Vietnam Service Medal, but I am NOT a combat veteran. That is those more worthy than myself. People like my high school classmate Corporal Laurence M. King, USMC KIA Quang Tin 09/28/65 RIP Larry.
Alas, you’re right. I regret the invective. As Churchill said “They also serve who only sit around and don’t do diddly.” Or something like that...