VETERAN: A moving experience

I was at the local Winco last week, wearing a U.S. Air Force hat. A young black man approached me. He was wearing dreadlocks and a look that is unusual to see in this area. Honestly, I am a little apprehensive. I have no reason to talk to him. He walks up to me and, in the middle of the racially fueled hatred and chaos our country is experiencing, he says, “Thank you for your service, sir!”

I was stunned. If he is reading this, I want to say two things.

You probably meet my definition of a great American and I am impressed by your situational awareness (most people don’t notice). It will serve you well in life. Thanks for a small splash of light in this dark time. All lives matter, especially ones like this!

RICHARD LAING

Major, USAF, Retired

Hayden Lake