As one of the people in my company that keeps up with not only customers on the phone and in email, but our small connection to the social network, I have a great opportunity to listen to the people. Not only do our customers provide feedback on our products and service, but from time to time I get the privilege to speak to one of our service men and women who have such great stories to share.
Last week, I spent almost an hour of my day on the phone with a Korean War veteran from Iowa. He told me stories of how he spent his twenty first birthday in a foxhole, the weapons he manned during the war, and how he was in the first tank unit in Korea. He told me how he lost his wife to poor health and how he lived alone now. He had fascinating stories that totally withdrew me from my daily rush of things I thought were important. After I finally hung up the phone, an associate said to me,"Man, that guy must have had a lot to say!" I thought for a minute and simply replied, "He is one of the reasons we do this."
That veteran sacrificed a lot in his day for his country. Those of us who have never served don't realize what these people have gone through over the years. I spent my twenty-first birthday in Las Vegas, gambling and enjoying the things twenty-one year old's are permitted to do. While there isn't a thing wrong with that, I have a great respect for those who have served and are serving now. If you know a vet, say thanks. If they want to talk about their time in the service, take time to listen. You'd be surprised what you'll learn.
-Nick Collier
