[Tim]

This thread struck a nerve with me on several levels.

First, I recently completed a 23 year career in the US Air Force which included a tour in Iraq. During that time I occasionally had the opportunity to to get on a computer. During those times, I took comfort in this forum, and communicated with several of you directly, and for that I thank you. It meant a great deal to me.

Secondly, during my Air Force retirement ceremony, I had the opportunity to say a few words. In addition to thanking my family for their sacrifices, I mentioned that those in the Armed Forces are very fortunate in these times to have fellow citizens who show support for the troops whether or not they agree with the policy that had placed them in various hostile corners of the globe. The men and women who serve today are very fortunate to have a public who can separate how they feel about a policy and how they can support the troops themselves. It wasn't always that way -- just ask an American Vietnam Vet.

Finally, with regard to Gord, he connected with me in a very seemingly small gesture. Back in November 1999, the first of Gordon's Massey Hall shows coincided with the Canadian Veterans Day commemorance. Earlier in the day before the concert I saw several folks around Toronto wearing a rose on their lapel I learned that they were handed out at a ceremony honoring Canada's veterans. That night Gordon came out on the Massey stage wearing a veteran's rose on the lapel of his shirt. To see Gordon come out wearing the same rose on his lapel spoke volumes of how he feels.