I left the Air Force after my first hitch of four years. I was a pretty decent electronics tech. Some places wouldn't even accept my application. Very few got as far as an interview. Typically it went like this: "have you been in the service?" "Yes, Sir. Air Force, four years" "Have you ever been to Viet Nam/Southeast Asia" "Yes, Sir, I have." "Don't let the door hit your *** on the way out."
It was very frustrating and humiliating. All I could get were menial barely over minimum wage jobs. Finally, I got back into the Air Force and gave them another 19 years.
Today it is so very different. People gather at the airport to cheer our returning heroes. I see the various events, free dinners, the thank yous mentioned above, etc. and it brings a tear to my eye. I am no longer embarrassed by my service.
To all who say "Thank you", I don't say "You're welcome", I can hold my head up and say "It is a privilege and an honor to serve you."
Thanks to all of you for giving us a country worth serving.