Annette Hill, our clinical director, recently uncovered 5 simple ways that civilians can express their thanks “with sincerity and some humility” to warriors who provide their service for our safety.

1. Thank you for all you do, for the sacrifices you make to defend us.
2. I will always feel greatly indebted to you for your willingness to serve and protect us.
3. I want to give you my gratitude for your willingness to sign on the line.
4. Thank You for being willing to sign on the line to do this job, not sure I could do that.
5. Thank you for being willing to do this job that brings with it everything that it does.

There are certain complexities behind the phrase “Thank you for your service”, and civilians might be a bit surprised to see that it could trigger a negative reaction. This is due to:

• Vietnam Veterans were not appreciated when they came home in the 1970s, and may still harbor bad feelings.
• There are many younger veterans who fought in Afghanistan and Iraq as well, that don’t appreciate the statement “Thank you for your service.”
• When you thank a warrior, you are expressing gratitude for their dedication to serve and acceptance of the potential of high costs, and maybe the ultimate cost – so sincerity is a must.
• Many veterans are still dealing with trauma and may be thinking, “You don’t even know why you are thanking me”.

Annette emphasizes that many veterans could still be dealing with trauma, so taking the time to express sincere gratitude on July 4th and every day for protecting our freedom.