Thank You for Seeing Us
By Gamma Goat Soap Company
Every year around Veterans Day, I hear the same phrase — “Thank you for your service.”
And every year, I struggle with how to respond.
“Thank you?” feels awkward.
“You’re welcome?” sounds stiff.
And “You were worth it?” — well, I’ve been told that one’s creepy.
The truth is, most of us didn’t serve looking for thanks. We were doing our jobs — sometimes out of duty, sometimes for adventure, sometimes because it was the right thing to do. But all of us knew what that uniform stood for: something bigger than ourselves.
I love my country — not because it’s perfect, but because it’s ours. I’ve been to plenty of places that make you realize just how good we actually have it here.
The Meaning of Veterans Day
There’s often some confusion about our military holidays, so let’s clear that up:
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Armed Forces Day (May) honors those currently serving.
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Memorial Day (May) honors those who gave their lives in service.
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Veterans Day (November 11th) honors all who have served.
It’s not a day about war stories or heroism. It’s a day about people — the quiet ones, the loud ones, the ones who came home and found a new way to serve.
Service Never Really Ends
For many of us, service doesn’t stop when the uniform comes off. It just changes shape.
Some of us build businesses, grow communities, raise families, or simply lend an ear when a fellow vet is struggling.
For me, Gamma Goat Soap Company became part of that mission — a new way to serve. To create something real, honest, and good for people.
So, when you say “thank you for your service,” I may still stumble on what to say back. But know this:
I see you, too.
Thank you for seeing us — not just the uniform, but the people who wore it.
And to my brothers and sisters in arms — I see you, I stand with you, and I wish you peace on this day of recognition.
One veteran on a mission, combating toxicity one bar at a time.