Brave-as-Hell 20 Somethings

Recently, I’ve been thinking about how our lives as busy-as-hell 20 somethings are so distinctly different from others of the same demographic. Just as we have made the choice to write, chain ourselves to a desk, and pursue ever-higher degrees in education, so have our troops made the decision to commit their 20s and beyond to the military service. 

There are currently 1,445,000 active troops serving in the U.S. Armed Forces. One of them is my brother, who is currently completing his basic training for the Navy. Another is a friend who is serving his third tour in Afghanistan, and another who will graduate from the Naval Academy this spring and become an officer. I’ve been thinking about the other 1,444,997 men and women who have left their homes and families to commit their lives to protecting this country. Their choices are more than a career; they are a lifestyle, a contract they are bound to for eight years, fifteen years, or an entire lifetime. Their 20s will never be like ours, and that makes me sad and even a little ashamed. What more can I, can any of us, do to show our support?

Of course, there are several ways to donate funds, send care packages, and write letters through online platforms like Support Our Troops and Any Soldier. But I’m talking about the little things. Hang a flag outside your window, or give your pocket change to the veteran with the tin can and paper flowers outside your supermarket. Thank anyone passing by in military uniform. I promise, it will make their day.

Patriotism in this country has experienced highs and lows, from the mountains to the prairies. But I would not say that it has completely diminished. Richard Stengel suggests that our country needs a New Patriotism that, going forward, will blend the faith of our fathers with the unfinished work remaining before us. Regardless of patriotic views, political views, or personal opinions, it is important that we show support for our servicemen. We may be busy as hell, but take the time out of your day to acknowledge our fellow, brave-as-hell 20 somethings.