Memorial Day Inspiration

Here's my youngest cousin after his graduation with the Marine Corps boot training in 2006. Last time I saw him he was still in elementary school.

I have to admit to having mixed feelings about the military since so many of my friends relatives are in military service. Especially when they're being recruited in Palau, not in the US. There are few opportunities on our tiny islands for young men and women, so they sign up with promises of being provided for after their tour of duty.

Two of my younger cousins have been diagnosed with PTSD (post traumatic stress disorder), one is still waiting to get his medical claim approved and unemployment. Not so pretty to see them struggling and drinking all weekend. My other cousin is beginning to show similar signs and his father is a Vietnam vet - can't sleep alone or be left alone at home. I've seen it nearly all my life in Guam, Palau, and now here in the States.

My ex-husband was in the Navy, and while there were benefits, we still lived at the poverty level and our marriage suffered when he got out. Didn't know what to do with himself after a decade in service.

Young people and their families, we've all sacrified, and we're not US citizens.