US Military Veterans are an elusive group of people. You may unknowingly be sitting near such a person right now. It's a rare event when a vet makes his or her service evident. And, even though this humbleness regarding servitude is a desired character trait, at the same time, it hinders innate comradery simply due to ignorance of each other's participation.
A ball cap is a easy, subtle and inexpensive way to stand proud in the crowd while simultaneously identifying yourself to other veterans as a brother- or sister-in-arms.
I started wearing a cap when I became active with the American Legion and now have several to choose from when venturing away from home. Now, with frequency, I'll be approached by others with gratitude thanking me for my service. At first, I truly did not know how to respond. Unless it came up during casual conversation, no one was aware of my service record so it was rare that I ever had to respond to such a greeting. My response was a humble, "Thank you."
It's been several years now and my response has both changed and matured with time. "Thank you" has morphed into "My honor to serve" and now my full response includes asking, "Have you or your family served?" And, you know? Every single person asked has responded with a resounding, yes. Military life has directly or indirectly touched just about every life around you. It amazed me when I began to ask and now I'm amazed (internally) if I get a response to the contrary.
This past couple of years, I've taken it to the next level. I make it a point that if I see another veteran cap, no matter how far away, I will make a concerted effort to introduce myself with my own, "Thank you for YOUR service." It never fails that with such an ice breaker, a conversation is inevitable. Veterans love talking with other veterans, sharing war stories, and cracking jokes on the other branches of service. It is a built-in brotherhood and sisterhood that goes beyond sex, race, culture, and religion. The bond that ties is strong and sometimes even unexplainable.
So, take a few dollars and invest in a future full of introductions, thankfulness, conversation, and possible relationships: a cap conveying your pride in the nation you've served and continue to serve. You won't be disappointed in the results.
