Bob Jones of Meredith, NH is someone greatly admired here at the ‘Grok. His work on behalf of America’s best and bravest, especially for the POW/MIA’s, is tireless. Setting aside partisan politics, Bob is always mindful that when it comes to our military and those who serve, there are no Republicans or Democrats, just Americans. Bob joined the Blue and Gold Star Mothers of NH who stood in support of the Gathering of Eagles in DC during a snowstorm this weekend in Concord, NH (prior post and pictures here). He forwards several thoughts on that event:
I read and watched as did many Americans the protests in Washington DC and other places throughout the Country over the weekend..I noticed the terminology used by most of the media. The media seemed to want to keep the observation and language used as close to the past (Vietnam Era) as possible..I had the opportunity to be with a group of Blue and Gold Star mothers in Concord on Saturday,March 17th along with Veterans from past Wars. The day as you remember was pretty cold and the traveling situation was not the best..It was a very positive day and the hearts were warm in support of those serving today in harms way. The politics of war did not take place. The focus was the "Support Of Those Serving"and their families.
Many there were Vietnam Veterans who remembered well the protests and protesters of the past. We discussed the situation of the VA (Walter Reed), the POW/MIA issue and the 3 Americans being held POW in Iraq today. We discussed the politics of War and we remembered the "Bring Our Boys Home" signs and how nothing much has changed.We remembered and discussed politicians at all levels making the War about them and their beliefs and party and little to do with those serving or their families.We discussed the start of this War and all the flags and true support the troops had and how many of us stated, "I wonder how many would be waving those flags 2-3 years down the road"?.One Vietnam Veteran mentioned that he felt most of those protesting were just there to protect their American dream but how those "American dreams were purchased by the nightmares of a few"..Those there understood War, the sacrifices made by the few, the grandstanding by many and the pretended patriotism of others. There was no screaming, swearing or media..There were Mothers of those serving, their families, and Veterans with one honest purpose who joined together..to support those serving,their families and those who will serve..Counter protesters? No..Just people joining together in support of what many just talk about. Those men and women doing the serving. Those mothers and Veterans will still be supporting the troops when the others are long gone but the battle continues as history proves..This War? Different form any other War in history. It’s a War of idology and will be part of our lives,our children and grandchildren..
Bob Jones
Meredith,NH