Want to show your gratitude to the troops, but don't know what to say?
Here's an idea that will solve that problem for you.
Seattle resident Scott Truitt, whose father and father-in-law both spent decades in the military, started The Gratitude Campaign as a simple idea to create a universally-understood way to convey thanks to service members we pass on the street, or in the airport.
Truitt knew that many Americans were looking for some way to express their gratitude to members of our Armed Forces, but most just don't know how. It can feel awkward to approach someone we don't know.
Because political opinions about the War on Terror are so polarizing, it is sometimes difficult for people to realize they need to thank service members for their service regardless of their personal political views.
So Truitt began trying to find a universal gesture that would convey "Thank You" quickly and comfortably, to avoid the sometimes awkward moments that can occur.
He thought of the sign language sign for 'Thank You,' which starts at the chin, but was afraid it might be misconstrued by someone unfamiliar with its meaning as a sign-language sign. Starting with your hand over your heart, as if you're about to say the Pledge of Allegiance, should make it easier to understand that the message is from the heart, even if the person doesn't know exactly what the sign means.
For more about the story behind The Gratitude Campaign, click on the link above for their web site.
Take a minute to post your message of thanks to let our men and women in the Armed Forces know how much you appreciate their service, and the sacrifices made on a daily basis by them and their families.
And while you're at it, thank our vets, too.
Scroll down below the form to read messages posted by other readers.
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