Want to celebrate a hero this Memorial Weekend? May I introduce Howard George. “Doc ,I was a true Hillbilly from Western Kentucky. I lost my parents at age 3. I became a Marine as soon as I could”. What a life: Greco Roman wrestling 1960 Olympics, Tours of duty Korea and 2 in Vietnam wars, two injuries leading to receiving the Purple Heart. Ultimately, he became a criminal investigator, then PI and Justice of the Peace. A life of service and wounds to prove it.

This highly decorated veteran whose bravery started at age 3, is fearless facing his current challenge. My questioning of “How are you managing, Mr. George? ” seems ridiculous.

This Memorial Day is not only an opportunity to thank a veteran and pray for those past, but to take action yourself and offer service for home and country. Thanking a Vet is a way to acknowledge that while those who did not serve, went on to education, business, success, the men and women who served, sacrificed so much and are often left behind. Sobering? Yes. When my own Vietnam Veteran combat engineer husband sees a veteran, he does not mention his own service. He just walks up and solemnly shakes their hand and nods. The recognition and bond is immediate.

And so, I will offer, that if you would like to thank a Veteran, and truly help, there are many ways. Give generously to veteran charities. Volunteer at a shelter. Donate to veteran homes and causes. We all have the power to really make an impact. It’s not a commercial. It’s real life. Just this week a very prominent oncologist told me how he lost his father to agent orange and a hairdresser detailed the loss of her own father after Vietnam. The wounds are there. They can be touched and healed. They all need us. As the world at war looks like an action movie, it is not. It may not be near but it is very real.

It is a sacred priviledge to lift these men and women through the abyss of cancer care, trying to assauge greater damage to their lives, and so today, I ask you to open your loving hearts. They and their families need us. Thank you for giving of your own talents and generosity which is also a sacrifice in service to these men and women. Thank you to our inspiring Purple Heart recipient who was eager for me to share his story. God Bless Marine Howard George, all my Veteran patients and those who have and still serve in your own families.