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Q&A: Do you respect a military veteran even though they never went to combat?

After leaving the military I noticed my “buddies from my hometown” think that my military career, serving in the intelligence community and a mission on Iraq although I didn’t go to combat, is a joke and not worthy of respect like other veterans. Just curious if this is the norm amongst civilians.
I never claimed i sacrificed as much as they did. Just that because of my job more people were actually able to come home and in one piece.

The following is the answer:

Answer by Purdey EP
Not for me it’s not. You served. It doesn’t matter that you didn’t see combat. You had what I consider the more important job in the military–knowing the best places to send our troops to be as safe and successful as possible.

Answer by marqueen71
They are unfortunately idiots. The military could not function without LOTS of people who never go into combat. How long would the military function without supplies, food, nurses and doctors, mechanics, etc.? Your “Buddies” who obviously are not friends obviously have no clue how important the intelligence community is. What would we do without the hours and hours of translations?

Answer by CloudCity[CC]
It’s not the same as for someone who saw combat duty. I see no reason to joke, or disrespect your career, as your role is important and deserves respect, and perhaps saved lives, but at the same time, your career does not compare to that of someone who placed their life on the line for their country.

You did a job, and collected a paycheck. They risked their lives. However important your role may have been, do you honestly believe you sacrificed as much as them ? (especially those who never came home).

Answer by Cuddly Psycho
My boyfriend is in the Army Nat’l Guard and is going to Afghanistan in January. His MOS pertains to helicopter repairs and maintenance. He won’t be on the front-line but if not for people like him and you the other soldiers wouldn’t be able to come home safe. I’m not saying you guys’ jobs are more important but they’re not less important either.

Answer by gilligan
It takes lots of personnel to both support troops in combat, and to fulfill other missions in the military. Each veteran has helped preserve the US from outside enemies or potential enemies. Those that think otherwise should keep their mouths shut until they join up and serve. Otherwise they don’t really know what they are talking about. And if they keep talking they are just showing their ignorance.

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