Thank You For Your Service

Veterans Day is one of my most revered federal holidays. It is a special day of remembrance adopted for us to give thanks and pay homage to all the brave men and women who served our country during war and peacetime. Originally known as Armistice Day honoring those that perished in WWI, after WWII a veteran of that war, Raymond Weeks had an idea that Armistice Day should represent all military veterans who served their country. The bill was signed into law by Dwight Eisenhower in 1954 and the name was changed from Armistice to Veterans Day. On this special day, I pay tribute to our 5 armed forces: the Army, Navy, Marines, Coast Guard, and the Air Force along with some fun things to do when you visiting these military bases.

photo courtesy unsplash.com

The Army is our oldest military branch. It was founded in 1775 under the order of General George Washington. The Army is responsible for protecting our country and global interests from the ground. This military branch has fought in battles from the Revolutionary War to current Middle Eastern conflicts. "This we'll defend" is an extremely appropriate motto. West Point, New York is where you will find the iconic Army Academy with nearly 60 other bases located in the states. I am especially fond of the Presidio in Monterey, California, home to two of the toughest golf courses in central California: Black Knight and Bayonet. The Monterey Bay Aquarium is the best facility of its kind. Take a walk along Cannery Row for some unique shops and fabulous restaurants.

The Navy was formed just months after the Army in 1775. This sea and air branch has seen numerous deployments beginning with the Revolutionary War. The Navy maintains a large variety of ships and aircraft: battleships, jet fighters, destroyers, and aircraft carriers are a few examples. The fleet is positioned worldwide and can be on display as a show of strength or to protect within hours. Always courageous or "Semper Fortis" as the motto says. Annapolis, Maryland is home to the Naval Academy. The states are home to numerous ports and air bases Norfolk, Virginia and San Diego, California are two of the largest, however, a visit to the U.S. Arizona Memorial at Pearl Harbor is a must for any patriot.

The Marine Corps was founded one month after the Navy in 1775. This branch is an extension of the Navy and is known as the military's "first responders." They respond over land, sea, or through the air. The Marine's primary role as defenders is amphibious and expeditionary warfare. Their motto "Always Faithful" or "Semper Fidelis" has earned these prestigious men and women some worthy nicknames: Jarheads, Devil Dogs, and Leathernecks. The list of Marine engagements is quite extensive, more than any other branch of the military. I personally have the highest respect for Marines, my grandfather landed on Iwo Jima during WWII. One of two recruit training depots is in San Diego, California, and is known for spectacular weather year-round. Take a relaxing harbor tour, and then a walk through Gaslight Square for some great nightlife.

My grandfather deploying from Camp Pendleton to Iwo Jima during WWII

The Coast Guard originated in 1790 but wasn't founded until 1915. Their unique role is to defend our country's ports and waterways while enforcing maritime law. They conduct search and rescue operations in the most extreme conditions always prepared or "Semper Paratus," an appropriate motto. The last time they saw military action was during the Vietnam War when they became part of the Navy. The patrol boat's water cannons were replaced with 50 caliber machine guns and served numerous missions along hostile rivers. It's said the best and most expensive education one can get is at the academy in New London, Connecticut. I spent a summer training in Yorktown, Virginia where I learned numerous boat handling skills. Yorktown is a history lovers paradise. Battlefields, original colonial homes, taverns, and shops are plentiful.

The Air Force is the new kid on the military block. Originally, these pilots flew for the Army Air Corp. After WWII there was an obvious need for a branch exclusive to air combat only. The Air Force is also responsible for monitoring activity in outer space. Like the naval ships, the list of maintained aircraft is long. Bombers, fighters, helicopters, and transport are just a few of the craft. Personnel wise it is the fastest growing branch of the military with bases in more states than any other service group. You'll find the academy in Colorado Springs with Pike's Peak nearby. Make the drive to the top for an outstanding view. Ellsworth Air Base in eastern South Dakota is the home of the B1 and B2 bombers. Rapid City and the Black Hills are a quick drive, and one of my favorite places to visit in the U.S.

There was actually a period in our recent history when it wasn't considered honorable to have served for our country ... especially if it involved armed conflict. Thankfully that mindset has waned. On Veterans Day numerous retailers and restaurants offer well-deserved perks to our veterans. Here in Las Vegas, we celebrate the vets with the biggest parade west of the Mississippi. My family has a long military history. A Marine grandfather, an Air Force father, an Army uncle, and myself serving in the Coast Guard. Bless all that served. Keep us safe. Oorah!!!