Sadly, there are an increasing number of FReepers posting anti-veteran comments.

This antipathy is based almost exclusively on the political positions and viewpoints held by US veterans - if a veteran holds viewpoints that these posters don’t agree with, military service that in some cases occurred decades prior is fair game for being denigrated. Such veterans have also been mocked for injuries and wounds sustained in combat.

This transactional support of veterans has also led to a growing disdain for those currently in the military. An example are derogatory comments made about F-15E Strike Eagle Pilots and WSOs that were shot down during a mission over southwestern Iran on March 3, 2026.

Veterans disrespected for their military service as a result of their political and issues viewpoints include more recently Dan Crenshaw and Ron DeSantis, and previously George H.W. Bush, John McCain, Ross Perot, and Allen West.

All veterans should be commended for honorable military service and the sacrifices made in defense of the United States. That service is separate and distinct from their political positions and viewpoints (the latter should not be immune from criticism). That some posters disrespect that honorable service for political reasons is unfortunate and speaks more to their character vs. those who made the commitment to military service and honorably served this nation.

Added 03/04/26
Edited 03/06/26