There are very few things that my brothers and I agree on.
My older brother is a Tarheels fan, my little brother is a Wolfpack fan and I’m a Blue Devils fan – just imagine ACC basketball season around my house when I was a kid. Both of my brothers (gulp) have, at one time or another, been Red Sox fans, something that I just can’t allow being a Phillies fan and all.
My little brother owns a bright green racing car way that he drives way too fast. My older brother owns a giant white truck, which he also drives way too fast. I avoid driving whenever possible.
My older brother lives in the country and my little brother lives in a small town. I live in the city.
Both of them have questionable taste in movies and television. Don’t believe me? My older brother used to be obsessed with the show, “Alf” (Google it).
Growing up, I read the business section of the newspaper, my older brother read the sports section and my little brother read the funnies.
If someone offered me a free trip today, I’d go to Spain. My older brother would probably go to Disney. My little brother would probably go to the beach.
My brothers and I disagree on most political issues from gay marriage to abortion to “Don’t Ask, Don’t Tell.” I’m reasonably certain that we have different stances on the spending of federal and state tax dollars. I know that our votes are rarely similar.
And both of them think that I run my mouth way too much. I, of course, would disagree.
But here’s something we all agree on: my brothers are much braver than I am. They both have suited up for their country and gone into some not so nice places to do their jobs. And I can run my mouth and we can disagree and sometimes have yelling matches over dinner (not that I’m saying that’s ever happened) and everything else because they had the pride and the guts and the honor to serve our country.
Today, I offer up a huge thanks to my little brother who is currently serving in the US Navy. And I owe a big thanks to my older brother who served honorably in the Navy for many years. To my cousins and uncles, my grandfathers and my father-in-law, each of whom have served in various branches of the service, I am so proud to know all of you. And to each of my readers who serve or know and love someone who is serving or has served, thank you all for your sacrifices.
The men and women in the armed forces in this country are some pretty amazing folks, my brothers included. They have – and they do – keep us safe. And for that, I am extremely grateful.
Happy Veterans Day!