Being Something You're Not
As in any other war, and we are at war folks, there are those who try to say that they are something they aren't. They will tell you that they are heroes. Real vets aren't like that. They most often won't even tell their children or wives about their experiences (aside from the funny ones involving a tasteful practical joke). If somebody comes up to you and starts talking about his (most likely a "he" but
not always!) war experiences, I've some observations...
I'll bet your guy talked about himself, about his guns, about his training and being the best, about being tough and strong and about something at least bordering on atrocity. But for sure it will be about him. He might have medals, documents, even photos, but...
I bet your guy didn't get that sad and lonely look when he was talking about something that seemed like yesterday to him and a place and time far away to you. You didn't see a tear in his eye. You didn't hear his voice shake. He didn't pause and look away time to time as he regained his composure. He didn't mention friends' names with obvious reverence.
Now there are sites which will help you smoke out these people such as
and books on the subject
which resulted in the
introduction and promotion of a law, the
Stolen Valor Act of 2005.
Labels: Culture
