Paying it forward
Dear Editor,
Shortly before Christmas, I was dining at Golden Corral. While there, I passed several servicemen at the buffet, one who met my eyes as we passed. I was wearing a Vietnam baseball cap.
Near the end of my meal with my wife and grandchildren, a woman approached our table stating that she had tried to give the servicemen (I am assuming they were the local Army recruiters) $30 toward their meal in appreciation for their service. She then said that they, in turn, pointed to me and said, “He deserves it more, he has already served his time.”
I am a disabled, retired Army vet (three tours Vietnam), but did not feel I deserved such kindness. She insisted, so I want her to know that I gave that $30 to the USO where it will help in the many volunteer services they provide our current men and women in uniform all over the world.
I have enjoyed the “Doughnut Dollies” who provided entertainment in Vietnam, even flying out to remote combat areas to the USO lounges found at many large airports, with quiet respite for traveling military of all services and providing free snacks, calling cards, television and other information. All is free and administered 24 hours per day by volunteers. That $30 could touch 30 vets. Thank you.
Robert Bertrand
Mount Sterling
