The most memorable job a veteran ever has or had in life is serving in the military.

Whether called by Uncle Sam or called from within, we go to fulfill that call. Motives, reasons, beliefs and desires may all be varied depending on the walk of life of each veteran prior to enlisting, but the result is always the same as the right hand is raised to recite the U.S. armed forces oath of enlistment.

New recruits are introduced to military training where discipline, physical toning and a mental state of awareness are instilled in preparation for the basic aspects of warfare. We all endured and learned a way of life no other job in the world would match.

It is for this reason veterans look back with an entirely different perspective, with a warrior sense of being. After serving, some will have had many jobs and some perhaps but one. I can only speak for myself but “the job” in the military (although I really hesitate to term it as a job) had the strongest impact on my life. Life changing it was. The effect on my spiritual, physical and emotional being was profound. Stressors? Yes! But isn’t that part of becoming stronger?

The outlook I had on my fellow man before and after the service was like night and day. Relationships became meaningful, and the enriched comaraderie became pronounced. I reckon the reliance we had on one another was real and truly meaningful. I’m sure I’m not just speaking for myself. I feel the close comaraderie with other veterans. We aren’t just friends but friends for life with a sustained reliance on and respect for one another in the good times and bad times.

Most of us cherish our memories. Yes, there are the moments we struggle with on a personal basis, but then we really aren’t alone. That reliance on each other carries over to support one another. An oath was taken to defend against all enemies foreign and domestic. That oath NEVER DIES as long as we can breathe. No, we don’t take up arms anymore, but we do support law enforcement, stand to honor our flag at events and encourage one another. And that, my fellow Americans, is a job that never changes. My best wishes to each one of you.