Dec. 8, 2025 Editor, The News-Gazette: I also wish to state my appreciation for the recent Veterans Day event in Lexington.
I am a veteran of the Vietnam “Conflict.” An unpopular war, to say the least, it was 41 years before I received my first thank you for having served my country. That was from a client who was a veteran of one of the later Gulf Wars. I related that I served during Vietnam. A “former” Marine, he reached out, looked me straight in the eye, took my hand, and said these words, “Thank you for your service.” That was 2010, 41 years later!
This past Veterans Day I marched for the first time in a veteran’s observation. It was quite emotional. I teared as I walked past school children and adults who lined the streets and cheered and waved. Bands played. Cadets marched. Kids sang. Speeches were made. I wasn’t overwhelmed but I sure was whelmed! And gratified.
I am glad I served. I am proud of my service. I was partially disabled from my tour. It was part of the dues I paid as a United States citizen. We may carry on these days as a country. What a privilege it is to be able to do so! And I did my part as a young citizen to make sure that we are free to do just that.
Thank you for appreciating that service. ROGER LEES 6910th Security Wing United States Air Force Security Service 1965-1969
