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This month marks the two year anniversary of my retirement from the United States Air Force where I was honored to serve for just over 20 years. On a few occasions I've had folks come up to me and thank me for my service. One morning a fellow bought me a hot tea at a Starbucks in Alexandria, VA just because I was in uniform. Another time a lady came up to me in the grocery store to thank me. The pastor of my church routinely singles out past and present military members for recognition, and I'm always proud to stand along side the others who've served. 
But truth be known, I've always received more from my service than I had occasion to give. Because of the US Air Force, I was able to receive an education I could not, otherwise, afford. Because of the Air Force, I've seen frost on Nebraska cornfields, the sunrise over Mt Etna in Sicily, and the sunset against the walls of the Alhambra in Spain. 
I've seen castles on the Rhine, fields of gold in France, and harvest moons over a southwestern desert. Because of the Air Force, I've marched before sunrise on the echoing streets of Lackland, I've trained on the friendly fields of strife at Maxwell, and I've briefed generals and sergeants in makeshift offices during time of war. 
I've seen a C-17 on an overseas tarmac bearing a flag draped coffin, and I taught a cadet who would join those who paid the ultimate price for our freedom. All of this, and I was able to be counted among the names of those who've served this country, and humbly have association with those who gave their life for it. Yes, I received far more than, by the grace of God, I ever had to give. ..
For those who gave more than they received, I say thanks and I remember.
.Keith H. Miller, Major, USAF (retired)
