Thank you for your ....
Sacrifice
Today I write in honor of my father, Brent Stromberg, veteran of the Vietnam War. I also honor all of the veterans who may be reading this issue, and the veterans of my extended family—Nick Olsen, Jonathan Olsen, and my late grandfather, Edwin Stromberg.
I read this editorial by Gina Barecca, which made me think about service more deeply, and the shared experience that only those who served and fought for our country can understand. Saying to a veteran, "Thank you for your service," is appreciated but perceived as a platitude, at best
Growing up, my dad rarely talked about his experience in the Vietnam War. The strongest memory I have of his service was his Combat Infantryman Badge. He kept it in the top drawer of his closet bureau in a shallow dish with coins and souvenirs. The pin mesmerized me, a rifle on a pretty light blue background. For such a small object it felt weighty. I remember placing it in the palm of my hand and wondering, did my dad know how to shoot a rifle? What did he do to receive this pin? Why was it now stored next to his socks and underwear?
Two years ago, my mother gave me an inch-thick stack of polaroids that my dad shot while serving as an Army Infantry clerk on the Tay-Nihn Combat Base. She pulled the stack from one of dozens of shoeboxes filled with printed photographs. One epic chapter in the paterfamilias' life, faded images and frayed edges from half way around the world, contained with a rubber band.
Midway through my life and I had never seen these photos before. I share a few of them today. While serving our country, this was Brent's "office." I can never fully understand what he experienced but I deeply respect the sacrifice that he made for our country and my family. I've always admired my father's stoicism. He always gets the job done. Works hard. Hides the pain. Supports his family. Never complains.
I feel ashamed that don't know more details about these pictures. Dad, when we're together this Christmas, let's pour ourselves a couple fingers of single malt and you can tell me about these people and places.
Readers, please call your veterans and honor them, in your own words.
