Who Do You Honor Today Muskego?

I believe I've mentioned my dad is a very proud member of the VFW Post 8171 in Muskego, and proud of his decision made 57 years ago to enlist in the Army.

Last weekend he assisted the VFW in their efforts to raise funds through 'buddy poppy' sales, a task he found enjoyable even though it left his legs a little sore from standing.

He recalled one woman giving him a hug in thanks, and that it really touched him. 

It's easy to forget that the neighbor next door, the mail carrier, quite possibly the cop who just handed you a ticket or a local coach used to wear a military uniform.  However, if you do know of someone, or spot a telltale military patch on their jacket, today is the day to ask them when they served, and of course to say thanks.

It's always been a powerful moment to me to approach someone I don't know and extend a hand in thanks for their service.  The reaction is generally one of humility, but realization that they are proud of the uniform they wore or still wear.  For me, it's a rock-star moment.  It's my chance to meet someone who really took a risk for his or her country, and for many people they would likely never meet.

Today, I honor my dad, James Konkol.  Hannau, Germany 1954-1956 in a medical battalion that took care of soldiers on their way out from Korea.  He serviced the military vehicles then, and is still fussing over our cars today. 

I honor also those still serving, and whom I've had the pleasure of meeting in the course of my job (please feel free to visit their stories below).  Thank you isn't nearly enough for us to say, but at the same time, it means the world to hear.