Mr. Wittshirk, a true patriot, as opposed to those waving flags, singing anthems, and pledging allegiance at every opportunity.  The idolatry of veterans as a special class only began with the privatization of the entire military.  No more draft, only "volunteers".  Veterans status is used to further politicize all discourse as any who disagree with phony anthems or pledges are declared as enemies of the veterans.  Veterans status has become an industry joined with the Military Industrial Complex to keep the wars going forever.  The majority of veterans ever serving have never been in combat or harm's way at all.  Those paying the ultimate sacrifice are used as one more excuse to further blind obedience to capitalist agenda.  Today's veterans have little in common with those of the past except they are more likely to be used for foreign economic adventures far removed from any protection of the U.S. nation.  The most irritating phrase to hear is: Thank you for your service.