Give thanks for what vets gave us — and for those who gave all

A couple weeks ago we had Veterans Day and you thanked all the vets for their service with handshakes, well wishes, discounts and free meals. Those of us who served did not do it for any of those reasons. Each of us did it for reasons of our own but it boils down to having a country and a people we believed was worth serving and protecting. Yes, you are worth it still, and most of us would be willing to serve again.

We have celebrated Thanksgiving and all I ask is for you to offer a prayer for those who gave it all and the families who have an empty seat at the table and an empty place in their hearts. Give thanks for a country that is still free and the men and women of our military who do and have done their best to protect and keep us free. Bless you and your families and the US military.

Ray Davies

Iowa City

Combat Medic, Vietnam