[Dstorm]

My Father (Navy), Two brothers (USMC -- US Army ASA) all served in country. I was to young to serve (enlisted US Army 1976) and felt remorse and a sense of not fully measuring up to my brother’s service for years.
They, and other Vietnam Vets told me, that I would have to be crazy for wanting to go, if I didn't have to. That feeling pushed me into volunteering for Desert Shield/Storm and Somalia, (volunteering!! now that’s crazy) your comments bring back that feeling that my service still doesn’t measure up to my brother’s.
I guess for me on this issue, I contrast the character of those who wore the uniform and took the risk (however slight) of being injured or killed in the service of their country, with those cowards like Clinton who took no risk at all.

[USMCVet]

Hi Dstorm -

My comments about the impressions I had from the Vietnam War in no way diminish your service as a veteran of Desert Shield/Desert Storm: you and your compatriots fought, taking the same risks that all of us took!

I was out cheering you guys when you got back..

The other Vietnam Vets that spoke to you were right when they warned you about volunteering - we had some lousy experiences over there and when we got back - so it didn't seem like something that we would recommend, particularly to our younger brothers. (One of my brothers joined the Army after I got back from Vietnam and he was wounded over there too). Luckily - and thanks to a great President, Ron Reagan - the American people came back to supporting our servicepeople and when it came time for you to fight, you were supported the way it should be.

Thanks for volunteering and joining the traditions of honor and sacrifice American fighting men have set before us since our country was founded...You're one of us!