[Originally published in Synapse on Nov. 12, 2009.]
Before coming to UCSF, I was a soldier in Operation Iraqi Freedom from 2005-07. My duties were as an Area Reaction Force Task leader and providing convoy security in Iraq for the delivery of supplies to the military units serving in the region I was located in.
The purpose of Veterans Day is not to glorify one of the most unfortunate follies of human nature — war and conflict. It is not to celebrate the horrible and devastating consequences of these actions on the world, but to show support to those who have stepped up to serve in time of need.
Veterans Day, to me, is a celebration of all those who once served, to those who are still serving, and those family members and close friends who have died in time of conflict.
Veterans Day reminds me that I am part of a group of individuals that is not defined by race, religion, sex, creed or time. When I meet a fellow veteran, there is a bond of understanding and unparalleled support, an instant and permanent connection.
Veterans Day is not only a day for me to think about my time in conflict, but I reflect on those who served beside me and I am reminded of the incredible soldiers I have met and the sacrifices they have made. It's a day for me to reconnect with the soldiers I have served with and with those who showed me support while I was serving overseas.
I will call the soldiers that I have served with and thank them for their service. I will call my family, friends, and those who had decided to support a solider they never met; to thank them for everything they have done for me.
When I attended the Veterans Day Parade in San Francisco on Sunday, it was a chance to stand among my fellow soldiers and veterans and return the support that I receive from them.
Above all, Veterans Day to a soldier means stopping, turning around, and saying thanks to you. The justification for war is always debatable, but despite of that, you have shown soldiers your unwavering support during times when we need it most.
When I returned from Iraq, we stopped by Maine International Airport to refuel. As we began to walk through the corridors of the airport, we were stopped in our tracks by the sound of every person in the terminal dropping their luggage, looking at us, and giving us a standing ovation for our safe trip home.
People I had never met had approached me and hugged me to show me how glad they were to have me home again. It was, quite simply, one of the most incredible experiences in my life.
This is what Veterans Day means to me, a Veteran of the Iraqi War, and what I reflect on during this day of pride and remembrance. In honor of all those who have served and are still serving, and in special memory of Specialist Matthew Grimm.
