As a Vietnam Veteran I refuse to read past the above part of your post. Thank you.
http://www.aetc.randolph.af.mil/pa/AETCNS/Apr2003/041103123.htm
April 11, 2003
Spitting Incident Reminds Servicemembers to Stay Safe
By Staff Sgt. J. LaVoie
56th Fighter Wing Public Affairs
LUKE AIR FORCE BASE, Ariz. (AETCNS) -- The wife of a military member received an unexpected message recently from an anti-war protester.
Jessica Resendez, who was wearing a sweatsuit printed with an Air Force emblem, was walking through a shopping center parking lot when a woman grabbed her sleeve and asked her if she was in the military.
After explaining that she was the wife of an airman, the woman spat at the ground near Ms. Resendezs feet and said, This is what I think of your military.
She was looking at me with the most hate Ive ever seen, Ms. Resendez said. I looked at her and said How dare you. It was all I could say. I (then) walked back to my car and cried.
Air Force members need to be prepared for these incidents, especially when wearing their uniform or clothing printed with Air Force emblems in public, according to an Air Force Office of Special Investigations agent at Luke.
With current world events, varying views of the public and higher stress levels, one should always be cautious and vigilant of their surroundings, said Special Agent William Pillai, acting commander of Air Force OSI Detachment 421.
People confronted with a similar situation should walk away, Agent Pillai said.
Specifically, do not argue with the individual or allow the situation to become violent.
Despite the incident, Ms. Resendez continues to wear her Air Force T-shirts in public.
Im proud that Im part of this family ... even if people want to spit at me, Ms. Resendez said.