For whom we serve - Veterans Day

It's Veterans Day; I am taking the day off
I rose by the sun, and raised the flag and watch it takeoff.
 
Decades ago, it was when I served
Yet it has given me more than I expected.
 
I am an immigrant who served his new country
Where I found purpose, and what gave me harmony.
 
In the asphalt jungles of NY City
I was a faceless stranger, for whom, no one had pity.
 
Then I found camaraderie among other GIs
When I found friends like Joe, Harry, Ken, and other guys.
 
Soon after, I felt belonged, recognized and welcomed
For where I was going, not where I was from.
 
And when I was discharged, honorably and proud
I was an American, with feet on the ground and head in the clouds.
 
Reza Ghadimi
 
I salute all my fellow veterans on this day.  We served our country when it needed us.  Today, our country is hurt by political division, and needs us again.  Let's help it heal by uniting together, solid and unified, hand in hand, and show the doubters that we are one country, united and strong. We will not allow it to be attacked from within or out. We are American, no matter our race, color or origin!