It goes without saying that our country's veterans deserve our thanks, respect, support, and love. But some of us often struggle with knowing what not to say to a member of our military who has returned from service.
These brave men and women have undergone an experience that is deeply personal, so it's important for us to take that into consideration before asking inappropriate or prying questions.
That doesn't mean we shouldn't be able to be ourselves or say what's on our minds. The VFW Southern Conference writes on their website, "Our vets are tough, and it is possible to avoid dredging up something they'd rather not relive without coddling them."
A great place to start? Making sure to avoid these surprisingly common questions and prying statements when speaking with a vet. It might seem harmless to ask, "Did you have to kill anybody?" But in reality, this is an extremely personal question, that might force this hero to relive one of the worst days of their life.
Scroll through below to see what you should never say to a veteran and please SHARE to spread the word to friends and family!
1. "What Was It Like Over There?"
We don't know what they went through or what their experience was like. And even more so, we don't know how they are feeling since their return home. So let's not put them in a situation where they have to remember or relive things they'd rather not.
2. "How Does Your Family Feel About You Being Gone?"
Well, that seems like quite the loaded question. Leaving family members behind is hard enough without a misplaced reminder about it.
3. "Did You Ever Have To Kill Anyone?"
We should absolutely never let these words come out of our mouths. This is an extremely personal issue, and likely not one that a veteran will want to relive or discuss.
4. "You Should Put That All Behind You."
Obviously this is easier said than done, and this statement displays a certain lack of empathy. Many veterans are dealing with PTSD, making it extremely difficult to put these traumatizing times behind them.
5. "What's The Worst Thing That Happened Over There?"
It might seem like we are just asking for a good story, but really we are asking them to relive what is likely the worst day of their lives. Instead of prying for details, let's offer our thanks, support, and love.
6. "I Know How You Feel."
No, we don't. We don't know how they feel. Even for those who served themselves, everyone's experience is wildly different and personal. We have no idea how they might be feeling.
7. "Do You Have PTSD?"
This is a massively personal question. Would we ask someone about the intimate details of their physical and mental medical history? Then why would we ask about this?
8. "Did You See The News...?"
Referring to the news about things still going on abroad is unnecessary and often unnerving. Many vets still know people fighting abroad and don't need to be reminded about the fact.
9. "I Was Going To Join Myself, But..."
Members of the military hear this one all the time. Don't say it. Instead of making things about ourselves, let's try to express our gratitude and respect for this person who made such an enormous sacrifice.
Knowing what not to say can not only save us from an embarrassing situation, but it can ensure that our country's veterans are shown the true respect and thanks they deserve.
Did we miss any from this list? Let us know in the comments and please SHARE this crucial reminder about what not to say to our country's heroes!
