To Salute or Not to Salute

Recently, I witnessed a surprisingly moving tribute on an airplane. Frankly, it put me to shame.

It was an end-of-the-day flight filled to the brim with weary travelers. You know how it is . . . every square inch of overhead bin space was jammed full.

Toward the end of the boarding process, a young man, dressed in his perfectly ironed fatigues, wandered to one of the last empty seats on the plane. Of course it was a middle seat. He squeezed his fit military frame between two men who were hovering around 300 pounds. Not a pretty site! I’m sure he dreaded the location, but complained not a bit.

Just before the door closed, a man from first class made his way back to coach, offering to change seats with this unknown hero. The army grunt was a bit surprised at first, then slowly rose, realizing he was in for a small treat. As he stood, those seated behind him burst into spontaneous applause, expressing their likewise appreciation for his sacrifice. It seemed a fitting response to his willingness to put himself in harm’s way on our behalf and in obedience of his commander in chief.

It made me think, why didn’t I shake his hand in appreciation in the terminal? Why didn’t the others around me likewise? How many times have I walked by someone in the military without saying a word? Why can’t I express the same appreciation for a policeman I see in the bagel shop or firemen who I encounter in a grocery store, shopping for the firehouse’s evening meal?

I determined, after watching that burst of expressed appreciation, I will not let my opportunity to say thank you pass by.

Those in uniform deserve our thanks, our prayers, our salute. I hope you feel that way too.