Here in the UK Veterans Day is called Remembrance Day, more to remember the fallen of all wars, rather than to celebrate veterans.
I was a regular army officer for 13 years in the 1970s/80s. I remain actively connected to my regiment. We have an annual service in Leicester Cathedral, followed by a small parade and march to the Town Hall, for any of our old regimental veterans who are still able to march. The only time I have ever been thanked for my service was by a small group of American tourists who wanted to know what was going on. I was returning to my parked car, still with my medal, umbrella and bowler hat. It is not that the British are ungrateful for veterans service, its just that they do not express that gratitude in the same way as you do Stateside.
I'd be interested to hear what it was that changed attitudes in the States. My understanding is that post the Vietnam war veterans were shunned/forgotten. What changed, when and how? Now US veterans appear to be highly cherished and given priority boarding planes and other privileges, which just does not happen over here.
Lastly, my thanks to all veterans, wherever they are in the free world, for being willing to put their lives on the line for all our freedom.
Tim
