There’s always been the question, why don’t combat veterans talk about their war experiences? Most think it’s because it’s too difficult. I believe it’s because we don’t want people to know the things we were a part of actually happened. Maybe we even pretend they didn’t really happen so we can get through those lifelong memories. On 9/11, the door to those things opened a little, for those who paid attention. Last Friday in Paris that door opened all the way. The carnage of the murder of innocent people, just doing everyday things, came home to almost everyone. Now people are afraid. Don’t be afraid, be alert. Being conscious of the “new normal,” being aware of what’s going on around you, it’s now the way we need to live. It’s the way almost every combat veteran I know has lived his or her entire life. Aware and alert!
Last Friday was more than terrible, it was real. So say a prayer for all those who died. Then keep your eyes open. Live your life, enjoy your life, at the same time care enough about life to watch our for things that seem different. Then tell someone. Complacency allows bad things to happen. Being aware can help keep your family safe and keep my family safe.
Michael G. Reagan
Edmonds
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