Recently, a younger U.S. ex-military manshareda story of his encounter with an older veteran.

The author then reminded him that not all U.S. military veterans fought inVietnam.

Read his thoughts below!

Article image

Im a smaller-framed person, so I dont fit the Hollywood look of asoldieror an Airman.

I think people just dont understand how the nature of warfare has changed.

Theres a lot more technology and stand-off, long-range engagements in warfare now.

Soldier Refuses To Take Disrespect From Elder, Teaches Him What A Modern Veteran Looks Like

Look at the war in Ukraine.Ukrainian defendersare using explosive FPV drones to great effect.

In the U.S., one of our greatest capabilities is our logistics.

As far as age, I dont feel like thats as common.

Soldier Refuses To Take Disrespect From Elder, Teaches Him What A Modern Veteran Looks Like

There are new veterans being made all the time, the OP emphasizes.

Mostmilitarywork is a young persons game.

Many do 4-6 years and get out, and thats fine and honorable.

Soldier Refuses To Take Disrespect From Elder, Teaches Him What A Modern Veteran Looks Like

Someone who thinks all veterans are boomers or in their 50s clearly isnt paying attention or thinking critically.

Certainly, my response has generated a lot of discussion.

When theBoomershowed embarrassment and remorse, I was polite and let him share a couple of stories.

Soldier Refuses To Take Disrespect From Elder, Teaches Him What A Modern Veteran Looks Like

I wanted to stand up for myself and also educate a clearly uninformed person.

But, ultimately, its up to the individual to decide, u/topogillo69 believes.

Veterans are not a monolith, nor are service members.

Soldier Refuses To Take Disrespect From Elder, Teaches Him What A Modern Veteran Looks Like

Everyone sees their time differently and what is appropriate is up to them in that situation.

My transition to civilian life was overall really good, the Redditor tells us.

I had already lined up a job and a transfer to the Air National Guard (ANG).

Soldier Refuses To Take Disrespect From Elder, Teaches Him What A Modern Veteran Looks Like

So, there wasnt too much stress.

I have no regrets from my time in Active Duty, the man says.

The life experiences made me a better person, even when it was tough.

Soldier Refuses To Take Disrespect From Elder, Teaches Him What A Modern Veteran Looks Like

Designated parking at Lowes isnt the only perk the Redditor now has as a military veteran.

The Redditor himself joined the military after he finished college.

If youre a veteran, see to it youre using the resources you earned.

Soldier Refuses To Take Disrespect From Elder, Teaches Him What A Modern Veteran Looks Like

VA home loans, the GI Bill, disability, and healthcare,u/topogillo69says.

There are people out there who can help you navigate the complexities and paperwork, just reach out.

The stress level is much lower and you have far more say in what you do.

Soldier Refuses To Take Disrespect From Elder, Teaches Him What A Modern Veteran Looks Like

Some other veterans also shared similar stories

Thanks!

Check out the results:

Soldier Refuses To Take Disrespect From Elder, Teaches Him What A Modern Veteran Looks Like

Soldier Refuses To Take Disrespect From Elder, Teaches Him What A Modern Veteran Looks Like

Soldier Refuses To Take Disrespect From Elder, Teaches Him What A Modern Veteran Looks Like

Soldier Refuses To Take Disrespect From Elder, Teaches Him What A Modern Veteran Looks Like

Soldier Refuses To Take Disrespect From Elder, Teaches Him What A Modern Veteran Looks Like

Soldier Refuses To Take Disrespect From Elder, Teaches Him What A Modern Veteran Looks Like

Soldier Refuses To Take Disrespect From Elder, Teaches Him What A Modern Veteran Looks Like

Soldier Refuses To Take Disrespect From Elder, Teaches Him What A Modern Veteran Looks Like

Soldier Refuses To Take Disrespect From Elder, Teaches Him What A Modern Veteran Looks Like

Soldier Refuses To Take Disrespect From Elder, Teaches Him What A Modern Veteran Looks Like

Soldier Refuses To Take Disrespect From Elder, Teaches Him What A Modern Veteran Looks Like

Soldier Refuses To Take Disrespect From Elder, Teaches Him What A Modern Veteran Looks Like

Soldier Refuses To Take Disrespect From Elder, Teaches Him What A Modern Veteran Looks Like

Soldier Refuses To Take Disrespect From Elder, Teaches Him What A Modern Veteran Looks Like

Soldier Refuses To Take Disrespect From Elder, Teaches Him What A Modern Veteran Looks Like

Soldier Refuses To Take Disrespect From Elder, Teaches Him What A Modern Veteran Looks Like

Soldier Refuses To Take Disrespect From Elder, Teaches Him What A Modern Veteran Looks Like

Soldier Refuses To Take Disrespect From Elder, Teaches Him What A Modern Veteran Looks Like

Soldier Refuses To Take Disrespect From Elder, Teaches Him What A Modern Veteran Looks Like