I was far from being a hero. I was just a dentist, stationed at a USAF hospital of a fighter interceptor base in Michigan. I treated the real heroes, those who were going to Vietnam or those just returning.
The country was incredibly polarized in 1966. Unfortunately, in many ways it's worse today. I have been vilified, criticized, slandered and actually physically threatened at my home, just for supporting my own choice of candidates or expressing my own personal, political or religious views.
My military experience is something i'll never regret. It left an indelible mark on me that has lasted for the rest of my life. Even 52 years later, I still feel immense gratitude for living in the only place on earth where
this grandson of poor, illiterate Eastern European immigrants could attain the American dream.
Like all other veterans, we served so others could freely express their own First Amendment rights, even when we totally disagree with them. Just because we disagree, that doesn't make us bad people.

Hope y'all had a wonderful 4th.
Happy Birthday, America.
Hug a veteran today.
Pray for the safe return of America's greatest men and women. Our troops are fighting overseas to keep us safe at home.

Dr. Stephen Morris, DDS
Captain, USAF, 1966-1968
West Meade, Tenn.

Sent from my iPhone