Reply #7: It strikes me now as trite.

[earthside]

Most people I hear say that say it because they think it is expected.

And it is heard now ad infinitum.

Besides, there are plenty of good Americans who were not in the military who also contributed to the freedom of this nation -- when do we thank them for their service?

Additionally, why am I thanking a file clerk in the Navy for their service ... the vast, vast majority of veterans were never in life threatening situations.

Veterans Day should be a day for reflection on the horror of war and the relief that they usual end, i.e., 'Armistice Day '.

Between Veterans Day, Memorial Day, Independence Day, 9/11 Day and now most other holidays, we get a steady diet of fixation on the military.
Frankly, I'm getting tired of it.

Nothing against individual veterans, but I am for de-emphasizing the influence of the military and war in American culture.