Mr. "bigdog" As a female combat medic who has been injured serving in Iraq I think this is sweet. I think it is unfortunate that you feel this way. I wake up everyday and put on my uniform for you. Blessed is the nation with a voice. You have every right to say what you think, because of people that you know so little about, we were there, we are there and you are not... and that is OK. I love my nation my army and my people including those who may not agree with what they do not understand.
people--- stop the war debate. this is about the children -soldiers- who are or have been there. it probably sucks and you might get blown up. they may have the same opinion as any of you regarding the politics of it.
People need to make a difference between politics and army. Soldiers are NOT politicians, they gotta do whatever those stupid people (aka politicians) tell them to do. So yeah, some soldiers turn out to be messed up and do effed up things. and some actually try to do some good. Stop putting all people in the same category, everyone is different. What we really need to do is stop those stupid wars, so no more civilians, nor soldiers will die. War makes good people evil.
@BigdogWitBigdog I guess my brother's a murderer then. If all troops just hill innocent people when told. Thank you for giving terrorists from other countries more credit than brave men and women from your home.
@DeepThought42a. Unfortunately, it just shows how ignorant, evil, ugly, non-appreciative & brain-less some folks are. Because people that are happy with life wouldn't post evil/hateful things like that. They're pathetic.
I am not saying any God damned thank you to a soldier lol! Unless it is smothered in sarcasm. I pray for those innocent babies that are murdered in war though. Peace over everything.
Excellent gesture as it eminates from the heart and gets right to the point. I like being verbal but respect the advantages this gesture presents. It's less time consuming, especially if you or a soldier is in a hurry to catch a plane or train. A lot of people today avoid shaking hands due to concern about germs, and finally this gesture is specifically aimed at soldiers, which makes it very special wheras "handshaking" and"thank- yous" apply to everyone in general.
This is ridiculous. Social defuncts. Walk up and say thank you in person with a good old fashioned handshake. "Oh, I'm too embarrassed to say hello or thank you. So, here's a sign that shows how socially void I am." I'm sure vets would love to have some NORMAL interaction with people. A little humility goes a long way. Morons.
@AmericanCane1971 A little research before you pass judgment and call people names goes a long way, too. Had you visited our web site, and read the FAQ section, you might have discovered that this is not about embarrassment, or being socially void, and that a large number of Vets actually prefer this sign to a verbal "thank you." Some don't. The point is, there is more than one way to view the world, and it might benefit you to broaden your mind a bit...
@AmericanCane1971 And what research exactly did you conduct to formulate this? Does not your video
say "Ever wanted to say thank you and didn't, but wish you had?" Easy solution, go up and say thank you
in person. The "thank you" deviation of american sign is simply your creation because YOU were
embarrassed and ashamed for watching them walk by and said nothing. It's your OWN perception. You wouldn't have had any regrets had you done so to begin with.
@AmericanCane1971 My research: A father who served 20 years in the Air Force; Father-in-law who is a Vietnam Vet and served in both the Army and Navy, and grandfathers who fought in WWII; 10 years of walking up to every Service Member and Vet that I see and thanking them verbally (which I still do when I can); receiving over 10,000 emails, Facebook posts, Tweets and phone calls from civilians, Vets, Service Members, and military family members; speaking at Veterans Day Assemblies for 3 years;
@AmericanCane1971 ...and working with other Veterans organizations like Operation Homefront and service dog organizations that help Vets with PTS.
Don't presume that you know why we created this when you clearly haven't taken the time to read what is posted on our site in black and white. (One aspect of which is pointing out that this sign is NOT ASL.)
I appreciate that you have a preference for thanking people verbally -- great -- do that. But you might respect that there are others
@AmericanCane1971 who have good reason and occasion to choose other forms of expression.
And again, ALL of this is addressed on our web site. If you'd like to actually read what we've already posted, and then get back with any furhter criticism, I'd be happy to respond to that, as well.
@gratitudecampaign I think this guy has some major issues and needs to be seen by some professional to get over his anger, need to attack and need to strike out. this is a wonderful compaign and it's being sent around by caring people, this "american cane" person wants only to strike out and strike down anything and everything and then feel superior in his superiority...no doubt this is a man...full of ego and self righteous indignation and "I'm right and everyone else is wrong".
@AmericanCane1971 I have known those same soldiers whom find it most annoying while others either pass it off and a few like it. As for your name calling that's very childish and shows a lack of understanding for those people who are too shy to speak up especially to those they do not know. Try a little consideration & respect for other people.
@AmericanCane1971 I have known those same soldiers whom find it most annoying while others either pass it off and a few like it. As for your name calling that's very childish and shows a lack of understanding for those people who are too shy to speak up especially to those they do not know. Try a little consideration & respect for other people.
@AmericanCane1971 - Do you notice where their gesture originates? It originates in the heart area, also know as the heart chakra - heart space. It is the center of healing, compassion and unconditional love. When you gesture from this place you essentially opening up your heart space to the intended recipient and offering them this love and appreciation. Did you ever notice the hand placement of many spiritual leaders, right in the center of their chest where their heart centers are.
@AmericanCane1971 Do you not find it somewhat hypocritical that you describe humility, yet are absolutely disrespectful. Please take your own advice, and have some humility. If you talk to people in such a manner face to face, I guarantee they'll see you are the one with social issues.
Any way that we can show our soldiers some gratitude is a good thing, and for those who aren't sure how to do it in their own way now have something else that can be understood quickly.
It's not about politics, it's about the rule of law and human rights. Fuck sacrificing lives! I appreciate service to those who respect and uphold the constitution. No compromise.
Personally I think those who have served and put their lives in harms way for our country shouldn't have to pay any taxes at all. They should be treated better than the empty shell celebrities so many like to put on a pedestal. Its nice to thank them, but for once can we thank them in ways they will feel beyond a simple gesture of thanks.
Paisley .... I had to chuckle about you commenting on something I said "2 YEARS" ago. But anyway let's just agree that we have the right to disagree. I also have family there and I also have spoken to many, many soldiers, men & women who still believe they are there protecting us and not complaining while doing their job. That is good enough for me. So yes, a big THANK YOU to all our Vets straight from my heart. God Bless you all! :-)
@readlearnandbecome B4 any1 starts nagging, I've got family in military currently & served in every war we've had; the most painful to handle spent 4 or 5 tours in Iraq incl the bloodiest of them all, Falllujah. He was sent stateside after & made a recruiter. the lies he has to tell cause physical & mental health probs. He's thin, can't sleep, jumps at slightest sound, & it's a hardship on his wife & child b/c his wife doesn't know how to help him other than love/listen tho he won't talk of war
@PaisleyPlace This is all too common for those who have served in combat. I might be able to help your family member get some support. Please contact me directly through the contact page of our web site to see if we can get him some help. Or, at the very least, the opportunity to talk to someone who knows what he's going through.
As one who served quite some time ago, I don't see a problem with just walking up to them and just expressing your thanks. The gesture is fine, but I think words are warmer, and could lead to new friendships.
Bernie is a piece of feces and he/she knows it. Most likely a conservative who wouldn't have the guts to serve anyway. OR, more likely, he/she was REJECTED by the military for some reason and just hasn't had the wherewithal to accept that fact during adulthood. Just another wart on the ass of humanity. Thankfully, they can be easily removed.
@gordonfanchris Here's a small clue for you: When you see someone railing against the rise of a nationalistic, theocratic military movement like say, the teabaggers, they are generally NOT Conservative. I mean... seriously. How stupid are you?
@gordonfanchris Nope. Unlike most conservatives and their warhawk political leaders, I DID serve. I'm also an employer, unlike most tea baggers who in most cases are stay-at-homes with disability pensions. As for the rest of your post... well you're just an angry, stupid person. This is probably about the best you can do when it comes to rational discourse. You are unarmed in the war of ideas, and you do the only thing you CAN do, which is hurl obscene, sub-schoolyard level insults.
So when do we start the campaign to drop to our knees and sing hosannas and praise when a soldier walks by? This has a yummy kind of North Korean flavor to it!
@gratitudecampaign I don't. I DO see exaggerated nationalism and slavish worship of the military as fascistic though, which it is. Those who do not know or understand history are doomed to repeat it.
@bernie4366 WIth all due respect, it seems hypcocritical for someone who labels a simple "thank you" as "fascist, slavish worship" and akin to communism to accuse anyone else of exaggeration.
And you're right. Those who are ignorant of history are doomed to repeat it. But let me remind you that the democracies that defeated fascism in WWII did so with their militaries, not with hyperbole.
@gratitudecampaign It's not a simple thank you, it's a ridiculous, worshipful bowing and scraping that practically elevates our servicemen to the level of a religious holy warrior. Also, let me remind you that it was liberals who wanted to fight WWII while conservatives wanted to stay home, which is the case against any REAL threat, and in those days war was considered a nasty business, only to be engaged in as an absolute necessity and best over with quickly, not something to be fetishized.
@gratitudecampaign No problem. I really hope you take the time to consider your actions and your attitudes. This country really can't afford much more of you pseudo-patriot types constantly subverting our Constitution and civil liberties in the name of 'safety' and 'patriotism'. If you can't educate yourself a little bit more in political science and political history, perhaps it would be best if you just withdrew from the public arena entirely.
@bernie4366 Damn, bernie. You've taken hyperbole to a whole new height. I've seen some histronic responses in my day, but you've got it down to an art form. It's so impressive, I must say (in a most worshipful, killing-your-civil-liberties note, natch): Thank you.
@bernie4366 I normally would berate your ignorance and lack of respect with totalitarian fervor. In this instance though, I shall refrain from lowering myself to your level. Please, if you feel that strongly about our men and women that you need to exhibit abhorrent behavior as such, do Americans a favor and choose a country that suits your needs better than this one. You would be doing yourself and others of this great nation a kind and generous service. Be well on your journey.....FUCKTARD!!!
@bernie4366 that's absurd. it's a sign of respect and thanking them for being ones to perform the duty that we take for granted as citizens of this country.
@justinpman Maybe a better sign of respect would be standing up to the tea party backed politicians trying to take away the individual freedoms soldiers in the past laid down their lives to defend, such as habeas corpus or our right to freedom from unwarranted search and seizure. Perhaps we could try NOT sending our boys overseas to die to protect cheap oil. Maybe we could band together and tell our govt. to stop torturing people. No. Let's do some stupid, empty gesture like this instead.
tea party politicians trying to TAKE AWAY individual freedoms?!? My friend, why not speak to a few and see how wrong you are, but you must raise your head up above the sand first ;-)
@terminat1 Not at all -- Active Military, Veterans, First Responders -- you could use this to thank anyone who serves or has served. Active Military are just easier to identify in public than Veterans, since many people don't recognize the baseball hats, pins, buttons, or patches that many Veterans wear.
Gratitude should be shown to individuals not to entire categories of people. Just because someone is wearing a uniform that doesn't mean you know anything significant about who they are. I know that this video is well intended but I worry that this is a double edged sword; that people who are eager to make positive assumptions about soldiers might be prone to make negative assumptions when they encounter a woman in a hijab or burka for example.
I appreciate the intent behind this comment, and I thank you for raising a couple of important points. First, our campaign IS about thanking individuals -- individuals who serve. By definition, those in uniform serve, and service, in our opinion, is deserving of gratitude.
As for the fear of the double-edged sword, I would encourage you not to overcorrect and deny those who serve gratitude out of fear of some potential future descrimination. For more on this, please see our blog, available on our web site.
@gratitudecampaign I know this is a sensitive subject so forgive me for being blunt. I think your judgments are premature, that they aren't based on enough information and that is why I think you might be susceptible to other kinds of premature judgment. I see you as doing the same thing as people who use mean words to describe the entire military: Making assumptions and pretending to know what you can't know.
@gratitudecampaign The people you're thanking are obviously individuals but you don't treat them that way. You approach them as interchangeable cogs in a machine. The man who spent years being tortured in a POW camp is not the same as the man who pilots predator drones remotely from Nevada. Yes there are heroes in the military but not everyone in the military even behaves like a good human being. The reality is complicated and that's why any "one size fits all" attitude is meaningless.
@ReadLearnandBecome What I, or any other civlian who encounter someone who serves know and don't know about them, and how I choose to interact with them as a result does not fit within 400 characters. That is why we have an entire web site and blog dedicated to this campaign and the issues that surround it. If you'd like to read the information that we already have posted there, and then e-mail me I'd be happy to discuss your thoughts. Otherwise, I guess we'll have to agree to disagree.
@ReadLearnandBecome Personally, I have no problem with the military soldiers as a whole; hwr, the morons (Moron #1&2 being Bush/Cheney) that started this 2nd Vietnam that has about bankrupted this country should face charges of treason & a laundry list of other infractions. I don't condone torture & it's illegal yet it was & is continuing today to a true patriot PFC Manning for sending the truth to the public that was denied by Bush Administration ie Bush/Cheney & Co who made a fortune off war!
Was just directed to this page ... an awesome idea.
As Canadians, we are also losing men in Afghanistan.
At a truck stop recently I went one better and went right up to a soldier and verbally thanked him. His reaction was surprise first, since people just don't. He teared.
He was on the way to nearby Trenton Air Force base to pick up a buddy who was returning alive ... so I asked him to extend my thanks to him as well.
This is a great idea. Will use it whenever the opportunity arises.
Being a war time marine I appreciate the gratitude, but it troubles me that you seem to have no patience or place for anyone with a dissenting view on quote unquote your page. Thanks. stoneman 424
@Gross1871 I'm sorry that I've given you the impression that I have no patience for dissenting viewpoints. To the contrary, we celebrate dissenting viewpoints. Our freedom to disagree with each other is one of the things that makes this a great nation. We only ask that people disagree constructively, and respectfully.
@Gross1871 Case in point: the only time I have referred to this as "my page" is in response to elbowbiter, and that was after he/she had referred to our campaign as "feces with sentimental icing on top." I would not consider that constructive or respectful. Up to that point, I had offered to agree to disagree.
I do thank you for the reminder to be tolerant of others' opinions. And more importantly, I thank you for your service.
@livinglegend1187 We didn't send this video to you -- you found it. If this campaign doesn't work for you, then by all means, don't do it. But what is the purpose in coming to this page and posting comments that are insulting to those who serve and those who appreciate their service? What do you hope to achieve with a comment like this?
Gratitude? For what? Thanks guys for killing folk so that I can fill my gas tank for cheap? Thanks for serving at the behest of the wealthiest 1%ers in their quest to supply me with crap that makes the world a shittier place. Thanks for being the muscle for an establishment hell bent on perpetuating the need for muscle. No thanks, I "reject the system dictating the norms" which includes this pile of sentimental propaganda.
How about "Thank you for defending my right to speak out against what I perceive to be injustice in the world." You seem to value that right quite a bit (as I do). Perhaps you could be grateful for that.
@gratitudecampaign Why do you believe that soldiers are necessary for this? Strange idea indeed. Even if you do cite the revolution... So you believe that fighting to preserve resources for ourselves is a war to protect our freedom of speech? All you have to do is have some courage, open your mouth, and speak. Don't need a soldier to hold my hand for that. History is full of people that have done so despite oppressive regimes. "Reject the system dictating the norms."
We have a fundamental misalignment in viewpoints. I am discussing service in the defense of freedom -- something that our Service Members have done for over 200 years, while you are trying to argue the war in Iraq. No, a war for oil (to put it in your simplistic terms) is not about defending our freedom. But the war in Iraq does not represent the totality of those who serve.
Beyond that, I am struck by how simple you seem to think that freedom is -- how much you take it for granted. And by how simple you seem to think it is to speak out against oppressive regimes without anyone at your back. I would hope that one day you'll have more respect for both. Yes, people have spoken out against oppressive regimes throughout history. But I don't suspect that any of them would characterize what they've done quite as cavalierly as you have here.
@gratitudecampaign Soldiers fight to preserve the establishment. Oil is the foundation of our society. That is why they are fighting in the middle east. Free speech includes speech that threatens the establisment. Soldiers defend the establishment... free speech must threaten the establishment (if it is truly free speech). Soldiers do not, can not, and have never fought to preserve free speech. They can only enforce the popular opinions derived from such speech (ie the revolution).
@gratitudecampaign I shall continue this debate one sided then. Propaganda is a disgusting thing. People being slaughtered so I can fill my gas tank on the cheap is unacceptable. Nationalism is cultural lag. Unity, cooperation, and inclusion is the way of the future. Your message is feces with sentimental icing on top. It is death with doves wings. You are aiding warmongers, profiteers, and dead establishments in a war against ourselves.
@gratitudecampaign moreover, when folk bow out in the manner in which you have... it usually means that they have no leg to stand on. Folk are waking up to the age old dynamics of warrior culture. It has never been about freedom. It has ALWAYS been about taking from others. It has ALWAYS been about controlling the masses in the name of the few. This has come to light again and again through out the ages by the brave folk who didn't give a damn about what the establishment had to say.
@elbowbiter1 Please don't make the mistake of viewing my agreeing to disagree as "bowing out". This isn't my first rodeo, elbowbiter1 -- I've had these kinds of conversations with many people before you. And I know how to recognize when someone isn't in it for an honest, open, and reasoable exchange of ideas, but rather to spew their own point of view.
@elbowbiter1 You have a right to your own opinion, and I respect that. But the bottom line is that you're not going to change my mind, and I'm not going to change yours -- and certainly not 400 characters at a time on YouTube. So let's just move on.
If you'd like to have a real conversation, rather than an exchange of insults, please read over the content we've already posted on our web site, and then e-mail me. I'd be happy to discuss your thoughts then.
@elbowbiter1 In the mean time, if you can't find a way to be respectful and dignified here, I'm going to block your comments. You have every right to your own opinion, and every right to voice that opinion. But that doesn't mean that I have a responsibility to give you a pulpit for that on my page.
Beautiful! I've adopted my own way of saying "thanks." When I've got a connecting flight, I take along an extra $20 and when I see military personnel having a meal or drinks I give it to the establishment (anonymously) to put toward their bill.
I would suggest that those who can't find a reason to thank the troops because of their hatred of Bush to read the two books by first hand observers of the Iraq war, as opposed to the second and third hand biased media accounts. You may be surprised at what really happened. The books are A Table in the Presence by United States chaplain Lt. Carey Cash and Saddam's Secrets. Then make an objective decision as to whether Bush was as bad or evil as you think.
As your are aware, Iraq has been getting better. Troop reduction has long been planned before current administration's been in office. Except this President will expedite it a little quicker and will receive the credit for so. It is very possible that the original plan of democratizing Middle East
followed by good economic relations with rest of world will become a reality. Decades from now, history will judge and will be a good one.
Thank you, thank you, thank you for your service! Please help Operation Gratitude -- a non-profit, 501c3 organization -- send care packages to the troops who right now are in harm's way in Iraq, Afghanistan and elsewhere! If you're a Facebook user, vote for Operation Gratitude via Target's Bullseye Gives campaign! THANK YOU!
I want to say thank you for this video ....my husband was a marine for 20 years and is a vietnam veteran ...i am so proud of him and his service to our country ...appreciate this ......elsmarie
As a soldier with 15 years in service and three tours in Iraq, I feel I can honestly say that you show great disrespect to all men and women in uniform by lying about things like this to push your agenda.
Well everyone is entitled to their opinions, so I will graciously agree to disagree with you. There is only word I would change. In your third sentence I would replace 'some' with the word 'most'. I can't really speak for the other three branches of the American Forces, but as for Soldiers...I'm here your there, I feel that gives my opinion a little more weight on the subject.
As far as Stupid politicians go, I feel Ron Paul is right up there near the top.
My opinion of Ron Paul's foreign policy is this....Lets build a dome, sealing in the U.S. from the rest of the world.Why stop there, if we shouldn't concern ourselves with other peoples problems, then after we seal the U.S. in then each state should have its own bubble, why should we worry about the other states, let them take care of their own problems. No more sending the National Guard to help other states.
He is not an isolationist, he is a non-interventionist. He favors the huge amount of foreign contact that is international trade. He wants more of that.
What he opposes is using American taxpayer dollars to push democracy on those who do not want it, or to intervene in civil wars for the benefit of US corporations or other special interests.
It is easier to defend the 50 states than to police the world. Let's stick to what we can do.
Last year when Ron Paul was running for President I took the time to call his campaign office. The person I spoke with made things sound almost the way you explained it.
This brought tears to my eyes. It's so true. Just a small gesture lets them know how much it matters to us that they are out there risking their lives for our freedoms and peace of mind. Thank you.
I want to say something more complex. I want to say that I realize that people join the military not knowing their mission. It is the leaders at the top who determine this. And when they send troops in to a bad situation, an un-winnable war, or to fight for an unjust cause, I don't blame the soldier. The soldier enlists with the intention of defending the freedom of Americans, including me, and for that I thank them. Their's not to reason why...
@MistyWoman4 You're sorely mistaken. I've spoken w/many soldiers & their families as I have family who are in or have been in Iraq; they know the score & think it's another Vietnam plus many are pissed b/c there are civilians there doing their jobs making 10x the salary they make & getting more benefits than they get despite the soldiers being in our military. It's time to send our troops home or send home the private military; we don't need both & sure as hell don't need 2 pay private military!
Being that it has been more than 4 years since the initial invasion of Iraq, every servicemember currently serving knew exactly what they were signing up to do. If they didn't then they were pretty naive about a very large life choice, and I dont pity them at all. I am an Infantry Marine Corps veteran, and the lack of respect spewing from your comment is hardly masked. The discovery you make with self service is that the bigger picture matters more than one person.
No lack of respect was intended for the servicemen. If I lack respect for anyone, it is the leaders like Bush, Cheney and Congress who got us in to this bad situation. But I have nothing but respect for our men and women in uniform.
That said, I think a 19 year-old is usually pretty naive about the larger life choices. I know what I was like at that age. Wisdom comes with age, if it comes at all. :)
I always show gratitude even though i dont know the soldier i go up to them and say thank you. everybody has to remember they are fighting for a reason. to keep us safe. i thank god every day for those men and women who fight so i dont have to. and trust me if i didnt have spina bifida id be right there with them. i have two friends in the armed forces. thank god for people like those guys. to all the armed forces thank you very mch. and to all the marines. SEMPER FI. and may i add HOO RAH.
For vacation I took my family to D.C. As we rode the train into town we saw many troops from the different branches of service. We always went out of our way to thank them for their service, and wanted them to know that those who hate them are few, and immature. We learned that they seldom got any thanks, but knowing the country as a whole honors them makes their service worthwhile.
Thats a big thanks to anyone and everyone who does that. I have a spouse overseas and its really hard facing people who don't approve and dont appreciate what sacrific they make. Thank u thank u thank u, bless u all
I'm prior military. I served from 1998-2002. Though I have come to believe the Iraq war to be unjust, I still hold all the measure of respect and gratitude towards our military as any other person can. Beyond this war, they still are the ones at the gate, doing what they can in their way to keep us safe. We do owe them our gratitude.
I am really suprised, I live in fear that people are going to come up to my husband and badmouth him for being in the military, when he is travelling. I've heard so many horror stories, about angry protesters, I never knew there was so much support. It makes me proud to be an American
Here's one more: Sincere thaks to you, your family, and your husband for your service. We are safer because he serves, and your family's sacrifice. Ronald reagan once said "No arsenal, or no weapon in the arsenals of the world, is so formidable as the will and moral courage of free men and women."
This epitomizes the American military family. Thank you.
Thanks to The Gratitude Campaign for giving Citizens of Our Nation an opportunity to Honor the Young Men and Women who Stand The Walls of Freedom for All Americans.
God bless each and everyone of our BRAVE men and women anywhere they are serving our country.A beautiful video and a wonderful program,that's what makes AMERICA the BEST country in the world.
Thank you, this is truly beautiful. I wish I'd heard of it sooner. Living so near the airforce base, I do see a lot of men and women in uniform, and I have never been sure how to say thanks... until now.
I understand the Pledge of Allegiance concept behind the sign however there is already a Thank You sign in ASL which closely resembles this one. I'm a hearing immigrant married 20 years to a deaf person and I use ASL. When I saw the video, I understood the meaning given but I don't see the point of create a new sign having one already in use by deaf Americans using ASL.
I personally will use the ASL one as this new one it can be misunderstood as "having an accent" while not clearly signing.
As I understand this sign is specifically for our servicemen. I'm sure they won't think you have an accent. Most of them don't know ASL. I have a deaf son and I know and you probably do too that the deaf culture is very critical of hearing people and even each other. If a deaf person isn't totally deaf, some will call him "hearing" which is an insult. You also know that there are different signs for deaf in different localities in the USA.
Am for the Fight and for the troops...I travel alot on Amtrak and by plane, Its not easy to cut across a crowd of ppl to say Thanks to the wemen n men i see in uniform so this is a great idea i will sure use it..God bless the troop/Freedom isnt Free.
I am for people, no matter who they are, or where they are. That salute should go to everyone that is putting themselves at risk to help other people.
This is really lovely, I will use it proudly! I am against the war but proud of our service people. I hesitate to get into conversations because of this - now I have a simple way to just say "Thank You". And thank YOU!
Thank you all veterans -- It's not about politics, it's all about SERVICE! As a naturalized US citizen from Vietnam and an ex fighter pilot in the South Vietnamese Air Force, I salute all veterans, especially the Vietnam vets. I'm glad that the attitude of the general American public has changed, despites their own political views, to recognize and appreciate all military folks for their service and sacrifice .
In the military we have the hand salute to show respect. The hand salute is generally not to be given to civilians, only other military personnel. I have often wished for a way to "salute" civilians.
I think this is a great way for civilians to "Salute" and show respect and appreciation, And I will return it whenever it is given to me. Perhaps one of our congressman will make this official.
I've often used the sign for gratitude (good, thank you) sometimes only time for tips of fingers from chin towards them. Acknowledgement is poignant stuff, often make me cry. Once a warrior signed back: 'do not cry mother, together we are strong.' Thank you, thank you.
I don't think I can find words to express accurately how much I love this idea.
A quick, Personal way to thank our troops for the service they provide to us on a day by day basis. and for the sacrifices they and their families make for us. Best thing about this, is no matter how busy we are, it doesn't take long to say thank you with the sign.
As a Marine, I have to say it means a lot to me when people I've never met approach me just to say thank you. To this day I never know what to say because I am taken aback by it. Long live my brothers in arms. Semper Fi.
It is nice to see that other say thnak you. My Dad was a serviceman and I always find myself drawn to talk to the servicemen that I enconter. I want to thank all of you.
I just wanted to say that when you say thank you, you have no idea how much it is appreciated. My husband just deployed. He wont be coming home for fifteen months. He will be miles away for two christmas', two birthdays and our first anniversary. But to hear someone, anyone say thank you makes everything just a little better, i know this from expierence. So thank you to all those who say THANK YOU!
wtf is this
Euphorica 2 months ago
Mr. "bigdog" As a female combat medic who has been injured serving in Iraq I think this is sweet. I think it is unfortunate that you feel this way. I wake up everyday and put on my uniform for you. Blessed is the nation with a voice. You have every right to say what you think, because of people that you know so little about, we were there, we are there and you are not... and that is OK. I love my nation my army and my people including those who may not agree with what they do not understand.
unknown123902 2 months ago 4
@unknown123902 -Thank you for your service.
tadsgirl 2 months ago
@unknown123902 God Bless you.
mrdropkicker1 2 weeks ago
people--- stop the war debate. this is about the children -soldiers- who are or have been there. it probably sucks and you might get blown up. they may have the same opinion as any of you regarding the politics of it.
dullath 2 months ago
Sign Language. Makes a lot of sense when you think about it & this way everyone understands. Thanks
IamNeutral 2 months ago
Awesome!!!!
MrAlhoyt 3 months ago
People need to make a difference between politics and army. Soldiers are NOT politicians, they gotta do whatever those stupid people (aka politicians) tell them to do. So yeah, some soldiers turn out to be messed up and do effed up things. and some actually try to do some good. Stop putting all people in the same category, everyone is different. What we really need to do is stop those stupid wars, so no more civilians, nor soldiers will die. War makes good people evil.
ranel63 3 months ago
Well, my son is deaf and mute and that is the only way he could say thank you to our military heroes. Food for thought.
snowbear60 3 months ago
This comment has received too many negative votes show
Propaganda bullshit. Enough with the "Support the troops" crap. They kill people when told, nothing more. get over it.
BigdogWitBigdog 3 months ago
@BigdogWitBigdog I'm sorry your field of view is so narrow.
gratitudecampaign 3 months ago
@BigdogWitBigdog I guess my brother's a murderer then. If all troops just hill innocent people when told. Thank you for giving terrorists from other countries more credit than brave men and women from your home.
mrdropkicker1 2 weeks ago
This is great but I'm dissapointed to see so many haters posting thoughtless comments about this.
DeepThought42a 3 months ago
@DeepThought42a. Unfortunately, it just shows how ignorant, evil, ugly, non-appreciative & brain-less some folks are. Because people that are happy with life wouldn't post evil/hateful things like that. They're pathetic.
IamNeutral 2 months ago
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coates27 6 months ago
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coates27 6 months ago
The US military: the world's largest terrorist cell since 1861!
fudgebarjohn 6 months ago
@fudgebarjohn
I am not saying any God damned thank you to a soldier lol! Unless it is smothered in sarcasm. I pray for those innocent babies that are murdered in war though. Peace over everything.
MeascEntertainment 4 months ago
@MeascEntertainment Peace at any cost, right? You total ingrate. We'll see what you'll say when you find yourself in a fascist state of affairs.
betnman0352 4 months ago
Excellent gesture as it eminates from the heart and gets right to the point. I like being verbal but respect the advantages this gesture presents. It's less time consuming, especially if you or a soldier is in a hurry to catch a plane or train. A lot of people today avoid shaking hands due to concern about germs, and finally this gesture is specifically aimed at soldiers, which makes it very special wheras "handshaking" and"thank- yous" apply to everyone in general.
ACLTony 6 months ago
no matter HOW you say it its the thought that counts.
lolaflydog 8 months ago
This is ridiculous. Social defuncts. Walk up and say thank you in person with a good old fashioned handshake. "Oh, I'm too embarrassed to say hello or thank you. So, here's a sign that shows how socially void I am." I'm sure vets would love to have some NORMAL interaction with people. A little humility goes a long way. Morons.
AmericanCane1971 8 months ago
@AmericanCane1971 A little research before you pass judgment and call people names goes a long way, too. Had you visited our web site, and read the FAQ section, you might have discovered that this is not about embarrassment, or being socially void, and that a large number of Vets actually prefer this sign to a verbal "thank you." Some don't. The point is, there is more than one way to view the world, and it might benefit you to broaden your mind a bit...
gratitudecampaign 8 months ago 3
@AmericanCane1971 And what research exactly did you conduct to formulate this? Does not your video
say "Ever wanted to say thank you and didn't, but wish you had?" Easy solution, go up and say thank you
in person. The "thank you" deviation of american sign is simply your creation because YOU were
embarrassed and ashamed for watching them walk by and said nothing. It's your OWN perception. You wouldn't have had any regrets had you done so to begin with.
you thanked a vet to begin with.
AmericanCane1971 8 months ago
@AmericanCane1971 My research: A father who served 20 years in the Air Force; Father-in-law who is a Vietnam Vet and served in both the Army and Navy, and grandfathers who fought in WWII; 10 years of walking up to every Service Member and Vet that I see and thanking them verbally (which I still do when I can); receiving over 10,000 emails, Facebook posts, Tweets and phone calls from civilians, Vets, Service Members, and military family members; speaking at Veterans Day Assemblies for 3 years;
gratitudecampaign 8 months ago
@AmericanCane1971 ...and working with other Veterans organizations like Operation Homefront and service dog organizations that help Vets with PTS.
Don't presume that you know why we created this when you clearly haven't taken the time to read what is posted on our site in black and white. (One aspect of which is pointing out that this sign is NOT ASL.)
I appreciate that you have a preference for thanking people verbally -- great -- do that. But you might respect that there are others
gratitudecampaign 8 months ago
@AmericanCane1971 who have good reason and occasion to choose other forms of expression.
And again, ALL of this is addressed on our web site. If you'd like to actually read what we've already posted, and then get back with any furhter criticism, I'd be happy to respond to that, as well.
gratitudecampaign 8 months ago
@gratitudecampaign I think this guy has some major issues and needs to be seen by some professional to get over his anger, need to attack and need to strike out. this is a wonderful compaign and it's being sent around by caring people, this "american cane" person wants only to strike out and strike down anything and everything and then feel superior in his superiority...no doubt this is a man...full of ego and self righteous indignation and "I'm right and everyone else is wrong".
1steeltrain 6 months ago
@AmericanCane1971 I have known those same soldiers whom find it most annoying while others either pass it off and a few like it. As for your name calling that's very childish and shows a lack of understanding for those people who are too shy to speak up especially to those they do not know. Try a little consideration & respect for other people.
ccapatriots 8 months ago
This has been flagged as spam show
@AmericanCane1971 I have known those same soldiers whom find it most annoying while others either pass it off and a few like it. As for your name calling that's very childish and shows a lack of understanding for those people who are too shy to speak up especially to those they do not know. Try a little consideration & respect for other people.
ccapatriots 8 months ago
@AmericanCane1971 - Do you notice where their gesture originates? It originates in the heart area, also know as the heart chakra - heart space. It is the center of healing, compassion and unconditional love. When you gesture from this place you essentially opening up your heart space to the intended recipient and offering them this love and appreciation. Did you ever notice the hand placement of many spiritual leaders, right in the center of their chest where their heart centers are.
celtic266 8 months ago
@AmericanCane1971 Do you not find it somewhat hypocritical that you describe humility, yet are absolutely disrespectful. Please take your own advice, and have some humility. If you talk to people in such a manner face to face, I guarantee they'll see you are the one with social issues.
Any way that we can show our soldiers some gratitude is a good thing, and for those who aren't sure how to do it in their own way now have something else that can be understood quickly.
camaroryn 4 months ago
It's not about politics, it's about the rule of law and human rights. Fuck sacrificing lives! I appreciate service to those who respect and uphold the constitution. No compromise.
vVv11511vVv 8 months ago
Personally I think those who have served and put their lives in harms way for our country shouldn't have to pay any taxes at all. They should be treated better than the empty shell celebrities so many like to put on a pedestal. Its nice to thank them, but for once can we thank them in ways they will feel beyond a simple gesture of thanks.
stockjonebills 8 months ago
@stockjonebills I think that's a hell of a good idea. If you see combat, no more taxes. Nice and simple.
bernie4366 4 months ago
Now a way to express our appriciation without saying a word, I hope every execises this campaign......
Laursimps7 9 months ago
God bless our Military Members and their families...
ghostseeker1 9 months ago
This has been flagged as spam show
The gesture is nice, but it constantly reminds me of this:
youtu.be/WxS0c9CTAUM#t=45s
lunquewill 9 months ago
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lunquewill 9 months ago
Paisley .... I had to chuckle about you commenting on something I said "2 YEARS" ago. But anyway let's just agree that we have the right to disagree. I also have family there and I also have spoken to many, many soldiers, men & women who still believe they are there protecting us and not complaining while doing their job. That is good enough for me. So yes, a big THANK YOU to all our Vets straight from my heart. God Bless you all! :-)
MistyWoman4 10 months ago
@readlearnandbecome B4 any1 starts nagging, I've got family in military currently & served in every war we've had; the most painful to handle spent 4 or 5 tours in Iraq incl the bloodiest of them all, Falllujah. He was sent stateside after & made a recruiter. the lies he has to tell cause physical & mental health probs. He's thin, can't sleep, jumps at slightest sound, & it's a hardship on his wife & child b/c his wife doesn't know how to help him other than love/listen tho he won't talk of war
PaisleyPlace 10 months ago
@PaisleyPlace This is all too common for those who have served in combat. I might be able to help your family member get some support. Please contact me directly through the contact page of our web site to see if we can get him some help. Or, at the very least, the opportunity to talk to someone who knows what he's going through.
gratitudecampaign 10 months ago
As one who served quite some time ago, I don't see a problem with just walking up to them and just expressing your thanks. The gesture is fine, but I think words are warmer, and could lead to new friendships.
Sup3rwood 10 months ago
How bout say...nothing. Many of us who serve don't want recognition, attention, or thanks. Simply nod and leave it at that.
ae8835dj3n 10 months ago
9 people don't know what it means to serve.....
justinpman 10 months ago
Thank you for every thing you do
ASHILEY15 1 year ago
Bernie is a piece of feces and he/she knows it. Most likely a conservative who wouldn't have the guts to serve anyway. OR, more likely, he/she was REJECTED by the military for some reason and just hasn't had the wherewithal to accept that fact during adulthood. Just another wart on the ass of humanity. Thankfully, they can be easily removed.
gordonfanchris 1 year ago
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bernie4366 1 year ago
@gordonfanchris Here's a small clue for you: When you see someone railing against the rise of a nationalistic, theocratic military movement like say, the teabaggers, they are generally NOT Conservative. I mean... seriously. How stupid are you?
bernie4366 1 year ago
@gordonfanchris Nope. Unlike most conservatives and their warhawk political leaders, I DID serve. I'm also an employer, unlike most tea baggers who in most cases are stay-at-homes with disability pensions. As for the rest of your post... well you're just an angry, stupid person. This is probably about the best you can do when it comes to rational discourse. You are unarmed in the war of ideas, and you do the only thing you CAN do, which is hurl obscene, sub-schoolyard level insults.
bernie4366 10 months ago
It must suck living in bernies shoes.
therealtreeguy65 1 year ago 3
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aldralee 1 year ago
So when do we start the campaign to drop to our knees and sing hosannas and praise when a soldier walks by? This has a yummy kind of North Korean flavor to it!
bernie4366 1 year ago
@bernie4366 I'm sorry for you that you see gratitude for service as solely being a communist value.
gratitudecampaign 1 year ago
@gratitudecampaign I don't. I DO see exaggerated nationalism and slavish worship of the military as fascistic though, which it is. Those who do not know or understand history are doomed to repeat it.
bernie4366 1 year ago
@bernie4366 WIth all due respect, it seems hypcocritical for someone who labels a simple "thank you" as "fascist, slavish worship" and akin to communism to accuse anyone else of exaggeration.
And you're right. Those who are ignorant of history are doomed to repeat it. But let me remind you that the democracies that defeated fascism in WWII did so with their militaries, not with hyperbole.
gratitudecampaign 1 year ago
@gratitudecampaign It's not a simple thank you, it's a ridiculous, worshipful bowing and scraping that practically elevates our servicemen to the level of a religious holy warrior. Also, let me remind you that it was liberals who wanted to fight WWII while conservatives wanted to stay home, which is the case against any REAL threat, and in those days war was considered a nasty business, only to be engaged in as an absolute necessity and best over with quickly, not something to be fetishized.
bernie4366 1 year ago
@bernie4366 I'm sorry you see it that way. Please feel free not to participate.
gratitudecampaign 1 year ago
@gratitudecampaign No problem. I really hope you take the time to consider your actions and your attitudes. This country really can't afford much more of you pseudo-patriot types constantly subverting our Constitution and civil liberties in the name of 'safety' and 'patriotism'. If you can't educate yourself a little bit more in political science and political history, perhaps it would be best if you just withdrew from the public arena entirely.
bernie4366 1 year ago
@bernie4366 I'm sorry that you feel that way. Please feel free not to participate.
gratitudecampaign 1 year ago
@bernie4366 Damn, bernie. You've taken hyperbole to a whole new height. I've seen some histronic responses in my day, but you've got it down to an art form. It's so impressive, I must say (in a most worshipful, killing-your-civil-liberties note, natch): Thank you.
aldralee 1 year ago
@aldralee You're very welcome :)
bernie4366 1 year ago
@bernie4366 I normally would berate your ignorance and lack of respect with totalitarian fervor. In this instance though, I shall refrain from lowering myself to your level. Please, if you feel that strongly about our men and women that you need to exhibit abhorrent behavior as such, do Americans a favor and choose a country that suits your needs better than this one. You would be doing yourself and others of this great nation a kind and generous service. Be well on your journey.....FUCKTARD!!!
gordonfanchris 1 year ago
@bernie4366 that's absurd. it's a sign of respect and thanking them for being ones to perform the duty that we take for granted as citizens of this country.
justinpman 10 months ago
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bernie4366 10 months ago
@justinpman Maybe a better sign of respect would be standing up to the tea party backed politicians trying to take away the individual freedoms soldiers in the past laid down their lives to defend, such as habeas corpus or our right to freedom from unwarranted search and seizure. Perhaps we could try NOT sending our boys overseas to die to protect cheap oil. Maybe we could band together and tell our govt. to stop torturing people. No. Let's do some stupid, empty gesture like this instead.
bernie4366 10 months ago
@bernie4366
tea party politicians trying to TAKE AWAY individual freedoms?!? My friend, why not speak to a few and see how wrong you are, but you must raise your head up above the sand first ;-)
Sup3rwood 10 months ago 5
This has been flagged as spam show
@bernie4366 Do not feed the troll.
FargoMarc 10 months ago
Hey gratitude, is this for active military only?
terminat1 1 year ago
@terminat1 Not at all -- Active Military, Veterans, First Responders -- you could use this to thank anyone who serves or has served. Active Military are just easier to identify in public than Veterans, since many people don't recognize the baseball hats, pins, buttons, or patches that many Veterans wear.
gratitudecampaign 1 year ago 3
Gratitude should be shown to individuals not to entire categories of people. Just because someone is wearing a uniform that doesn't mean you know anything significant about who they are. I know that this video is well intended but I worry that this is a double edged sword; that people who are eager to make positive assumptions about soldiers might be prone to make negative assumptions when they encounter a woman in a hijab or burka for example.
ReadLearnandBecome 1 year ago
@ReadLearnandBecome
I appreciate the intent behind this comment, and I thank you for raising a couple of important points. First, our campaign IS about thanking individuals -- individuals who serve. By definition, those in uniform serve, and service, in our opinion, is deserving of gratitude.
gratitudecampaign 1 year ago
@ReadLearnandBecome
As for the fear of the double-edged sword, I would encourage you not to overcorrect and deny those who serve gratitude out of fear of some potential future descrimination. For more on this, please see our blog, available on our web site.
Thank you for your comment and concern.
gratitudecampaign 1 year ago
@gratitudecampaign I know this is a sensitive subject so forgive me for being blunt. I think your judgments are premature, that they aren't based on enough information and that is why I think you might be susceptible to other kinds of premature judgment. I see you as doing the same thing as people who use mean words to describe the entire military: Making assumptions and pretending to know what you can't know.
ReadLearnandBecome 1 year ago
@gratitudecampaign The people you're thanking are obviously individuals but you don't treat them that way. You approach them as interchangeable cogs in a machine. The man who spent years being tortured in a POW camp is not the same as the man who pilots predator drones remotely from Nevada. Yes there are heroes in the military but not everyone in the military even behaves like a good human being. The reality is complicated and that's why any "one size fits all" attitude is meaningless.
ReadLearnandBecome 1 year ago
@ReadLearnandBecome What I, or any other civlian who encounter someone who serves know and don't know about them, and how I choose to interact with them as a result does not fit within 400 characters. That is why we have an entire web site and blog dedicated to this campaign and the issues that surround it. If you'd like to read the information that we already have posted there, and then e-mail me I'd be happy to discuss your thoughts. Otherwise, I guess we'll have to agree to disagree.
gratitudecampaign 1 year ago
@ReadLearnandBecome Personally, I have no problem with the military soldiers as a whole; hwr, the morons (Moron #1&2 being Bush/Cheney) that started this 2nd Vietnam that has about bankrupted this country should face charges of treason & a laundry list of other infractions. I don't condone torture & it's illegal yet it was & is continuing today to a true patriot PFC Manning for sending the truth to the public that was denied by Bush Administration ie Bush/Cheney & Co who made a fortune off war!
PaisleyPlace 10 months ago
Thank You! Gracias! Merci!
dfwhog 1 year ago
Was just directed to this page ... an awesome idea.
As Canadians, we are also losing men in Afghanistan.
At a truck stop recently I went one better and went right up to a soldier and verbally thanked him. His reaction was surprise first, since people just don't. He teared.
He was on the way to nearby Trenton Air Force base to pick up a buddy who was returning alive ... so I asked him to extend my thanks to him as well.
This is a great idea. Will use it whenever the opportunity arises.
Thanks!
blogmeister 1 year ago
Thank you to all of those who serve and protect. God bless each of you.
rbjllj 1 year ago
Being a war time marine I appreciate the gratitude, but it troubles me that you seem to have no patience or place for anyone with a dissenting view on quote unquote your page. Thanks. stoneman 424
Gross1871 1 year ago
@Gross1871 I'm sorry that I've given you the impression that I have no patience for dissenting viewpoints. To the contrary, we celebrate dissenting viewpoints. Our freedom to disagree with each other is one of the things that makes this a great nation. We only ask that people disagree constructively, and respectfully.
gratitudecampaign 1 year ago
@Gross1871 Case in point: the only time I have referred to this as "my page" is in response to elbowbiter, and that was after he/she had referred to our campaign as "feces with sentimental icing on top." I would not consider that constructive or respectful. Up to that point, I had offered to agree to disagree.
I do thank you for the reminder to be tolerant of others' opinions. And more importantly, I thank you for your service.
gratitudecampaign 1 year ago
I'm sick of the constant military worship that retards want to perform.
livinglegend1187 1 year ago
@livinglegend1187 We didn't send this video to you -- you found it. If this campaign doesn't work for you, then by all means, don't do it. But what is the purpose in coming to this page and posting comments that are insulting to those who serve and those who appreciate their service? What do you hope to achieve with a comment like this?
gratitudecampaign 1 year ago
@livinglegend1187
By all means avoid the "worship." But please, continue to enjoy the freedom to criticize that these men and women guarantee for you.
abcdw235 1 year ago
@livinglegend1187 YOU NEED TO BE THANKING THE MILITARY FOR THE RIGHT TO BE SUCH AN INCONSIDERATE JERK THAT YOU OBVIOUSLY ARE!!!!
rednketech 1 year ago
@livinglegend1187 What are you talking about?
INGRAMDR 9 months ago
what a lovely way to thank those who keep us safe
bettyarmstrong 1 year ago
@bettyarmstrong Thank you!
gratitudecampaign 1 year ago
very nice vid!
Sherayx 1 year ago
Gratitude? For what? Thanks guys for killing folk so that I can fill my gas tank for cheap? Thanks for serving at the behest of the wealthiest 1%ers in their quest to supply me with crap that makes the world a shittier place. Thanks for being the muscle for an establishment hell bent on perpetuating the need for muscle. No thanks, I "reject the system dictating the norms" which includes this pile of sentimental propaganda.
elbowbiter1 1 year ago
@elbowbiter1 :
How about "Thank you for defending my right to speak out against what I perceive to be injustice in the world." You seem to value that right quite a bit (as I do). Perhaps you could be grateful for that.
gratitudecampaign 1 year ago
@gratitudecampaign Why do you believe that soldiers are necessary for this? Strange idea indeed. Even if you do cite the revolution... So you believe that fighting to preserve resources for ourselves is a war to protect our freedom of speech? All you have to do is have some courage, open your mouth, and speak. Don't need a soldier to hold my hand for that. History is full of people that have done so despite oppressive regimes. "Reject the system dictating the norms."
elbowbiter1 1 year ago
@elbowbiter1
We have a fundamental misalignment in viewpoints. I am discussing service in the defense of freedom -- something that our Service Members have done for over 200 years, while you are trying to argue the war in Iraq. No, a war for oil (to put it in your simplistic terms) is not about defending our freedom. But the war in Iraq does not represent the totality of those who serve.
gratitudecampaign 1 year ago
@elbowbiter1
Beyond that, I am struck by how simple you seem to think that freedom is -- how much you take it for granted. And by how simple you seem to think it is to speak out against oppressive regimes without anyone at your back. I would hope that one day you'll have more respect for both. Yes, people have spoken out against oppressive regimes throughout history. But I don't suspect that any of them would characterize what they've done quite as cavalierly as you have here.
gratitudecampaign 1 year ago 3
@gratitudecampaign Soldiers fight to preserve the establishment. Oil is the foundation of our society. That is why they are fighting in the middle east. Free speech includes speech that threatens the establisment. Soldiers defend the establishment... free speech must threaten the establishment (if it is truly free speech). Soldiers do not, can not, and have never fought to preserve free speech. They can only enforce the popular opinions derived from such speech (ie the revolution).
elbowbiter1 1 year ago
@elbowbiter1
I could not disagree more. But I didn't start this campaign to try to convert you 400 characters at a time. So we'll just have to agree to disagree.
Thanks for your input, and best of luck in your war against the establishment.
gratitudecampaign 1 year ago
@gratitudecampaign I shall continue this debate one sided then. Propaganda is a disgusting thing. People being slaughtered so I can fill my gas tank on the cheap is unacceptable. Nationalism is cultural lag. Unity, cooperation, and inclusion is the way of the future. Your message is feces with sentimental icing on top. It is death with doves wings. You are aiding warmongers, profiteers, and dead establishments in a war against ourselves.
elbowbiter1 1 year ago
@gratitudecampaign moreover, when folk bow out in the manner in which you have... it usually means that they have no leg to stand on. Folk are waking up to the age old dynamics of warrior culture. It has never been about freedom. It has ALWAYS been about taking from others. It has ALWAYS been about controlling the masses in the name of the few. This has come to light again and again through out the ages by the brave folk who didn't give a damn about what the establishment had to say.
elbowbiter1 1 year ago
@elbowbiter1 Please don't make the mistake of viewing my agreeing to disagree as "bowing out". This isn't my first rodeo, elbowbiter1 -- I've had these kinds of conversations with many people before you. And I know how to recognize when someone isn't in it for an honest, open, and reasoable exchange of ideas, but rather to spew their own point of view.
gratitudecampaign 1 year ago
@elbowbiter1 You have a right to your own opinion, and I respect that. But the bottom line is that you're not going to change my mind, and I'm not going to change yours -- and certainly not 400 characters at a time on YouTube. So let's just move on.
If you'd like to have a real conversation, rather than an exchange of insults, please read over the content we've already posted on our web site, and then e-mail me. I'd be happy to discuss your thoughts then.
gratitudecampaign 1 year ago
@elbowbiter1 In the mean time, if you can't find a way to be respectful and dignified here, I'm going to block your comments. You have every right to your own opinion, and every right to voice that opinion. But that doesn't mean that I have a responsibility to give you a pulpit for that on my page.
gratitudecampaign 1 year ago
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deathofisrael 2 years ago
A very good way to say thank you. Who ever wrote this did a wonderful job.
My son is in the army and over there. My nephew will soon be going
skymannya 2 years ago
Does anybody know who does this song? Very strong...
philliprauls 2 years ago
I LOVE THIS..
PERIOD!!!
all4mdj 2 years ago 2
Beautiful! I've adopted my own way of saying "thanks." When I've got a connecting flight, I take along an extra $20 and when I see military personnel having a meal or drinks I give it to the establishment (anonymously) to put toward their bill.
obiwan2112 2 years ago
Gratitude
ashleyandbella 2 years ago
I would suggest that those who can't find a reason to thank the troops because of their hatred of Bush to read the two books by first hand observers of the Iraq war, as opposed to the second and third hand biased media accounts. You may be surprised at what really happened. The books are A Table in the Presence by United States chaplain Lt. Carey Cash and Saddam's Secrets. Then make an objective decision as to whether Bush was as bad or evil as you think.
raiderdad 2 years ago
As your are aware, Iraq has been getting better. Troop reduction has long been planned before current administration's been in office. Except this President will expedite it a little quicker and will receive the credit for so. It is very possible that the original plan of democratizing Middle East
followed by good economic relations with rest of world will become a reality. Decades from now, history will judge and will be a good one.
sayhi2jon 2 years ago
My brother is in the [Air force] I will have to thank him next time I see him <3
iNLOVEWiTHWEBKiNZ98 2 years ago
Thank you, thank you, thank you for your service! Please help Operation Gratitude -- a non-profit, 501c3 organization -- send care packages to the troops who right now are in harm's way in Iraq, Afghanistan and elsewhere! If you're a Facebook user, vote for Operation Gratitude via Target's Bullseye Gives campaign! THANK YOU!
AEOakley 2 years ago
I want to say thank you for this video ....my husband was a marine for 20 years and is a vietnam veteran ...i am so proud of him and his service to our country ...appreciate this ......elsmarie
warrenst1955 2 years ago
freesk8,
As a soldier with 15 years in service and three tours in Iraq, I feel I can honestly say that you show great disrespect to all men and women in uniform by lying about things like this to push your agenda.
i69inboots 2 years ago
Thank you for defending my freedom.
But I stand by everything I wrote above.
Some soldiers in Iraq believe in the mission.
But I think that many do not, but instead believe in doing their duty.
I have a lot of respect for our men and women in uniform.
I have little if any respect for the corrupt and stupid politicians who sent them there.
These politicians have all violated their oaths of office and no longer deserve the respect our servicemen and women give them.
freesk8 2 years ago
Well everyone is entitled to their opinions, so I will graciously agree to disagree with you. There is only word I would change. In your third sentence I would replace 'some' with the word 'most'. I can't really speak for the other three branches of the American Forces, but as for Soldiers...I'm here your there, I feel that gives my opinion a little more weight on the subject.
i69inboots 2 years ago
As far as Stupid politicians go, I feel Ron Paul is right up there near the top.
My opinion of Ron Paul's foreign policy is this....Lets build a dome, sealing in the U.S. from the rest of the world.Why stop there, if we shouldn't concern ourselves with other peoples problems, then after we seal the U.S. in then each state should have its own bubble, why should we worry about the other states, let them take care of their own problems. No more sending the National Guard to help other states.
i69inboots 2 years ago
Your perception of Ron Paul's views are in error.
He is not an isolationist, he is a non-interventionist. He favors the huge amount of foreign contact that is international trade. He wants more of that.
What he opposes is using American taxpayer dollars to push democracy on those who do not want it, or to intervene in civil wars for the benefit of US corporations or other special interests.
It is easier to defend the 50 states than to police the world. Let's stick to what we can do.
freesk8 2 years ago
Last year when Ron Paul was running for President I took the time to call his campaign office. The person I spoke with made things sound almost the way you explained it.
BigOldScout 2 years ago
Someone should send this to President Obama - he needs it.
johnlaw63 3 years ago 2
Agreed
iNLOVEWiTHWEBKiNZ98 2 years ago
AWESOME USA USA USA ALL THE WAY.
chuckjared1 3 years ago
Awesome video, I wish my friend Pat Tillman could see it.
chuckjared1 3 years ago
that was nice
starcookie96 3 years ago
I always thank the troops, Especially after my cousin went to the Iraq.
kyotoprincess 3 years ago
I always thank the troops...
Jennofthejungle49 3 years ago 2
This brought tears to my eyes. It's so true. Just a small gesture lets them know how much it matters to us that they are out there risking their lives for our freedoms and peace of mind. Thank you.
dragonflydreaming 3 years ago
Awesome video! Thanks for posting it.
mommajo1954 3 years ago
I want to say something more complex. I want to say that I realize that people join the military not knowing their mission. It is the leaders at the top who determine this. And when they send troops in to a bad situation, an un-winnable war, or to fight for an unjust cause, I don't blame the soldier. The soldier enlists with the intention of defending the freedom of Americans, including me, and for that I thank them. Their's not to reason why...
We need to thank them, and bring them home.
freesk8 3 years ago
And I believe that most soldiers who are there believe in what they are doing. Thank God for them!
MistyWoman4 3 years ago 6
@MistyWoman4 You're sorely mistaken. I've spoken w/many soldiers & their families as I have family who are in or have been in Iraq; they know the score & think it's another Vietnam plus many are pissed b/c there are civilians there doing their jobs making 10x the salary they make & getting more benefits than they get despite the soldiers being in our military. It's time to send our troops home or send home the private military; we don't need both & sure as hell don't need 2 pay private military!
PaisleyPlace 10 months ago
@MistyWoman4 That very belief built this wonderful country.
globalron 8 months ago
Being that it has been more than 4 years since the initial invasion of Iraq, every servicemember currently serving knew exactly what they were signing up to do. If they didn't then they were pretty naive about a very large life choice, and I dont pity them at all. I am an Infantry Marine Corps veteran, and the lack of respect spewing from your comment is hardly masked. The discovery you make with self service is that the bigger picture matters more than one person.
schaefle6301 2 years ago
Thank you for defending my freedom!
No lack of respect was intended for the servicemen. If I lack respect for anyone, it is the leaders like Bush, Cheney and Congress who got us in to this bad situation. But I have nothing but respect for our men and women in uniform.
That said, I think a 19 year-old is usually pretty naive about the larger life choices. I know what I was like at that age. Wisdom comes with age, if it comes at all. :)
By the way, I did NOT vote for Obama.
freesk8 2 years ago
@freesk8 I would rather have Bush and Cheney any day of the week instead of having a draft dodger or some idiot like Obama who hates the military.
INGRAMDR 9 months ago
I always show gratitude even though i dont know the soldier i go up to them and say thank you. everybody has to remember they are fighting for a reason. to keep us safe. i thank god every day for those men and women who fight so i dont have to. and trust me if i didnt have spina bifida id be right there with them. i have two friends in the armed forces. thank god for people like those guys. to all the armed forces thank you very mch. and to all the marines. SEMPER FI. and may i add HOO RAH.
armenianply 3 years ago 3
For vacation I took my family to D.C. As we rode the train into town we saw many troops from the different branches of service. We always went out of our way to thank them for their service, and wanted them to know that those who hate them are few, and immature. We learned that they seldom got any thanks, but knowing the country as a whole honors them makes their service worthwhile.
SoutherngentFL 3 years ago 3
Thats a big thanks to anyone and everyone who does that. I have a spouse overseas and its really hard facing people who don't approve and dont appreciate what sacrific they make. Thank u thank u thank u, bless u all
York2004 3 years ago 2
I'm prior military. I served from 1998-2002. Though I have come to believe the Iraq war to be unjust, I still hold all the measure of respect and gratitude towards our military as any other person can. Beyond this war, they still are the ones at the gate, doing what they can in their way to keep us safe. We do owe them our gratitude.
Captain077 3 years ago
I am really suprised, I live in fear that people are going to come up to my husband and badmouth him for being in the military, when he is travelling. I've heard so many horror stories, about angry protesters, I never knew there was so much support. It makes me proud to be an American
asyetundefinedebby 3 years ago 4
Here's one more: Sincere thaks to you, your family, and your husband for your service. We are safer because he serves, and your family's sacrifice. Ronald reagan once said "No arsenal, or no weapon in the arsenals of the world, is so formidable as the will and moral courage of free men and women."
This epitomizes the American military family. Thank you.
SoutherngentFL 3 years ago 4
Great video I posted a bulletin about it on my myspace home page.
hackinsyd1 4 years ago
I want to thank you for this beautiful video
barbieoldnnew44 4 years ago 2
this is an awesome idea!! thank you!
faerysexy 4 years ago
The best idea I have seen in a while!
Great job to whoever started this. My sons and I always go up to people in uniform and shake their hands and thank them for their service.
only1shisko 4 years ago
this is a fantastic public service video. speaking of gratitude - Thank you. . .
Cornelia Seigneur
WriterMomMuse 4 years ago 2
Thanks to The Gratitude Campaign for giving Citizens of Our Nation an opportunity to Honor the Young Men and Women who Stand The Walls of Freedom for All Americans.
buddyo61 4 years ago 9
I am so glad someone sent this to me!
My fiance is in the Navy and I have many friends serving in other branches.
This is such a great message for everyone to see!
Thanks so much for creating this!
I will definitely be passing this video and message along!
jilliannicole05 4 years ago 7
God bless each and everyone of our BRAVE men and women anywhere they are serving our country.A beautiful video and a wonderful program,that's what makes AMERICA the BEST country in the world.
INDRIDCOLES 4 years ago 10
Thank you, this is truly beautiful. I wish I'd heard of it sooner. Living so near the airforce base, I do see a lot of men and women in uniform, and I have never been sure how to say thanks... until now.
Wolfwingz 4 years ago 6
I understand the Pledge of Allegiance concept behind the sign however there is already a Thank You sign in ASL which closely resembles this one. I'm a hearing immigrant married 20 years to a deaf person and I use ASL. When I saw the video, I understood the meaning given but I don't see the point of create a new sign having one already in use by deaf Americans using ASL.
I personally will use the ASL one as this new one it can be misunderstood as "having an accent" while not clearly signing.
rogerporta 4 years ago
As I understand this sign is specifically for our servicemen. I'm sure they won't think you have an accent. Most of them don't know ASL. I have a deaf son and I know and you probably do too that the deaf culture is very critical of hearing people and even each other. If a deaf person isn't totally deaf, some will call him "hearing" which is an insult. You also know that there are different signs for deaf in different localities in the USA.
charcon953 4 years ago
Good point, and i don't think you were being disrespectful.
hergen20 3 years ago
Am for the Fight and for the troops...I travel alot on Amtrak and by plane, Its not easy to cut across a crowd of ppl to say Thanks to the wemen n men i see in uniform so this is a great idea i will sure use it..God bless the troop/Freedom isnt Free.
ALPHAMALE44 4 years ago 6
I am for people, no matter who they are, or where they are. That salute should go to everyone that is putting themselves at risk to help other people.
hergen20 3 years ago
This is really lovely, I will use it proudly! I am against the war but proud of our service people. I hesitate to get into conversations because of this - now I have a simple way to just say "Thank You". And thank YOU!
MamboDogFaceOne 4 years ago 4
Thank you all veterans -- It's not about politics, it's all about SERVICE! As a naturalized US citizen from Vietnam and an ex fighter pilot in the South Vietnamese Air Force, I salute all veterans, especially the Vietnam vets. I'm glad that the attitude of the general American public has changed, despites their own political views, to recognize and appreciate all military folks for their service and sacrifice .
Salue you all!
thaiduongtube 4 years ago 4
In the military we have the hand salute to show respect. The hand salute is generally not to be given to civilians, only other military personnel. I have often wished for a way to "salute" civilians.
I think this is a great way for civilians to "Salute" and show respect and appreciation, And I will return it whenever it is given to me. Perhaps one of our congressman will make this official.
Thank You!
SgtRum 4 years ago 5
I've often used the sign for gratitude (good, thank you) sometimes only time for tips of fingers from chin towards them. Acknowledgement is poignant stuff, often make me cry. Once a warrior signed back: 'do not cry mother, together we are strong.' Thank you, thank you.
Tambour12 4 years ago
I don't think I can find words to express accurately how much I love this idea.
A quick, Personal way to thank our troops for the service they provide to us on a day by day basis. and for the sacrifices they and their families make for us. Best thing about this, is no matter how busy we are, it doesn't take long to say thank you with the sign.
diofan 4 years ago 2
Thank you for this!
My son is in the Navy.
I love my son.
~i do not like war~
but i am grateful for what our sons must do for all of us . . . and this is not about politics . . . i will remember to always say thank you now.
theStowaways 4 years ago
...and daughters
Michelle5451 4 years ago
Yes, Sons AND Daughters.
theStowaways 4 years ago 2
Terrific idea!
...and say of brief prayer to God to Bless & Protect'em!
Pray for our Troops whenever you think of them!
God IS listening.
Merry Christmas!
kkkkkkatherine 4 years ago
Thank you VETS!
LiberalshateAmerica 4 years ago
As a Marine, I have to say it means a lot to me when people I've never met approach me just to say thank you. To this day I never know what to say because I am taken aback by it. Long live my brothers in arms. Semper Fi.
jopatrick53 4 years ago 2
It is neat to see the "hand sign" for Thank You. I always greet servicemen with the response "thank you for serving our country".
sueskins 4 years ago
THANK YOU!!!
It is nice to see that other say thnak you. My Dad was a serviceman and I always find myself drawn to talk to the servicemen that I enconter. I want to thank all of you.
CeeJvids 4 years ago
AWESOME...my nephew just deployed to Iraq and I know how much it means to him when people tell him Thank You.
THANK YOU TO ALL WHO HAVE EVER SERVED!!!!!
bjbert2003 4 years ago 2
I just wanted to say that when you say thank you, you have no idea how much it is appreciated. My husband just deployed. He wont be coming home for fifteen months. He will be miles away for two christmas', two birthdays and our first anniversary. But to hear someone, anyone say thank you makes everything just a little better, i know this from expierence. So thank you to all those who say THANK YOU!
WifeOfCPLWo 4 years ago 3