I just sent the following to our local newspaper.
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If you were one of those people setting off the hundreds of illegal
fireworks in my neighborhood last night, but like to thank veterans
for their service, think about this. By sending up those fireworks,
you were doing the exact opposite of thanking them. As an old Vietnam
veteran, those fireworks did not bring me joy. They brought me
sadness and sorrow. Having explosions surround my house tonight
brought me back to those long nights in Vietnam. I cannot image what
it must have felt like for the veterans of today’s wars.
We served with honor to protect this nation. You acted with dishonor,
breaking the law and putting everyone around you in danger. Hopefully
no one was hurt because of your actions. The next time you are
tempted to say “Thank you for your service”, keep your mouth shut. We
don’t need your thanks, we need your cooperation.
Bob