[The Shrew]

For several years during the course of my relatively extensive business travels I have been making a habit of noticing service members in or out of uniform as they travel.

1. I thank them for their service.

2. I make the discussion about them and their service - not me - when asked I will say I was in the Marines a hundred years ago. These kids do not necessarily want to hear an old man's war stories.

3. When the situation warrants it I have been known to invite them into the Red Carpet Club or bar and buy a round to make the point that they are important and appreciated.

4. I have been known to get my frequent flyer upgrade to first class and "pass it on" to a servicemember. I have had gate agents react warmly to such a request.

5. I've left them alone when, like the Army Staff Sergeant, on last night's flight they seemed to be able to fall asleep standing up. Then, I say a prayer thanking God for these men and women and what they are doing for us.

6. I tell them about FreeRepublic and the Canteen and that they should check it out.

Thank you Snow and AntiJen for the great work that you and the canteeners are doing here.

Great Idea TomKow!

Regards,

TS

[Snow Bunny]

oh WoW.......The Shrew! Hi !

I missed you soooo much. You have got to check out the thread from yesterday. It was Feed Your Face and we did Junk food all day for the troops!!!!!!!!!!

Gosh I missed you sooo much.
Welcome Back TS and hope all went well.

[LaDivaLoca]

Hello! I don't travel as much as I would like to but I will remember your pointers the next time I get a chance to do so. I'm not the type to approach strangers and strike a conversation - I'm a bit shy and it's a cultural thing too but I will definitely make an exception the next time I see a serviceman or servicewoman. It's time we let them know that they are very much appreciated and that they do have our support and most of all our prayers.

[Jen]

I think it's terrific that you honor our servicemembers in so many ways! Thanks for sharing your experiences - you gave me some ideas I'd never thought of and maybe some other people too. Thanks for your support of the Canteen and our troops and veterans. God bless you real good my friend.

Jen

[Kathy in Alaska]

God bless you Sir, and thank you too for your service to our country. I missed you when we went on liberty to Alaska. I believe you owe us a story one day. LOL!!