They walk among us, but they are not part of us.Though they disguise themselves effectively, blending in with the everyday population in the roles of grandparents, aunts and uncles, childhood friends, lovers and strangers on the street, if you look closely, you will find them out.
You will see their true colors of green, blue and brown. Some may even wear a ribbon of purple. Some, those who have seen the worst this life has to offer, may even wear the color red which stains their aging hands and hearts.
They walk among us, but they are not part of us.They are set apart by their service, some asked and some volunteered. They are set apart by the blood, sweat, and tears they have shed. They are set apart by their life experience, some good, some bad, but all proud.
A passing of the torch of brotherhood is continuing to take place as the older generation gives way to the younger. They share a bond that we ordinary citizens may not, or can not understand. That bond was formed in the face of adversity in the trenches of France, in the skies over Germany, floating the deep blue waters of the Pacific, in the jungles of southeast Asia, the deserts of the Middle East and atop the mountains of Afghanistan.
Whatever patch or medal they have worn, whatever hymn or cry they have sung, they all bear the badge of duty, honor and courage. And that is how we will know them, those who belong to this sacred club, those who proudly wear the badge of a United States Veteran.
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