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Zach Nankivel

Today is Veteran’s Day, and I want to give thanks to all the women and men who have served and are serving their country.  My brother Zach is currently in the middle East serving in the Navy’s Mobile Security Forces.

I was very young when my father went to basic training, but I still remember missing him while he was gone and that he was doing something very important.  Back then I didn’t understand that he was doing it for us and for his country, but I do now.

I went to Chicago to see Zach’s graduation from basic training earlier this year.  One of my favorite parts of the ceremony was when the speaker asked people in the crowd to stand up.

“Please stand if you served in the United States Army.”

“If you served in the Army National Guard.”

“If you served in the United States Air Force”

Don Nankivel

“If you served in the United States Coast Guard.”

“If you served in the United States Marine Corps.”

“If you served in the United States Navy.”

“Now, please stand up everyone who has served their country in all branches of military service.”

It was amazing to see all of the people there who had or were currently serving this country that I am grateful to live in.  When my father stood up along with all the others, it was all I could do to keep from bawling my eyes out.  The gratitude and pride were overpowering.  I feel that way this Veteran’s Day.

So thank you, Zach and dad, and everyone who has or is currently serving!

I look forward to seeing you sometime in the spring Zach.  Take care, and come home safe.