Inspiration- Voice of Democracy
I did not stumble upon this project by accident. In February of 2013, I was honored to be the State Champion of the Voice of Democracy competition, sponsored by the Veterans of Foreign Wars. I had written an essay entitled, “Why I’m Optimistic About The Nation’s Future.” After this win, I was fortunate enough to spend time with members of the military. Specifically, I was asked to give my speech at the State Military Conference and was able to meet many veterans and active military individuals from all branches. After meeting, there was a dance and a Vietnam veteran asked to dance with me. I said yes and we engaged in conversation during the dance. He told me about his experiences in Vietnam and a tragic death that he witnessed. His platoon loved a little five year old girl. She would always talk to the men and was a ray of sunshine in such a dark time of war. Due to the nature of war, however, her little life was cut short. She came to the men one day and was wearing explosives. The veteran said, “She only thought she was playing a game.” The explosives went off. The girl was killed. Several members of his platoon were injured or died. I could almost feel the pain in his voice and his eyes were suddenly burdened. I was amazed at what I was hearing. It seems that we hear stories like these, but never really think about their significance or how they affect the people involved. When I walked back to my hotel room, I had much to think about. Why was it that I was the only one from my post to even turn in an essay? Why is it that I do not hear the memoirs that military men and women have to share with others? Why is it that so many suffer in silence and do not have an outlet after war? The military simply needed personal exposure. After such a wonderful night at the State Meeting, and spending so much time with veterans, I made it my mission to share the stories of the military.