"Will All Those in The Military Please Exit First"

My 4th of July was wonderful because I got to pick Sam up at the airport. We hadn't seen each other for about 5 weeks. He told me that when he got ready to board the plane, the flight attendant asked all military personnel to come and form a separate line to board the plane. He was the only one in that line. So he was the third person on the plane (after those in wheelchairs or needing assistance). When they landed in SLC, the flight attendants wanted to honor all those serving in the armed forces, so they asked all military to exit the plane first. Sam was the only one who stood up. Everyone on the plane started cheering and clapping as he gathered his bags in the overhead compartment and made his way down the aisle and off the plane (meanwhile, everyone was still clapping). He was totally embarrassed. I think I would have been, too. Too bad he sat 2/3 of the way back on the plane. I guess, to put things in perspective, we have to remember that they weren't really clapping for him, per se, but for all those who wear the uniform. I really am grateful for this country and for those who serve in the military (including all you spouses, who, I think, have the more difficult task) So on this day of remembrance, "Thank You" for all you do.