‘Reflections of a Veteran’
I have always enjoyed reading the Tennessee history lessons by Bill Carey. We do, however, appear to have different opinions as expressed in his “Reflections of a Veteran” in your November issue. Military members are an all-volunteer force, always combat-ready. Enlisted personnel are not compensated as well as their civilian counterparts and are subject to frequent transfers far from home, causing hardship. When one expresses thanks to a veteran, it is an expression of respect. Mr. Carey may prefer to visit a bar on Veterans Day. I will attend our local (Houston County) Veterans Day program, where the service and sacrifice of former and current veterans is recognized.
Susan Gould
I did not have Bill Carey’s email. Excellent article and I agree with his opinion. I always enjoy his columns.
Gary L. Houston
Editor’s response:
We heard from many readers regarding Bill Carey’s November column on Veterans Day.
To anyone who was offended by what they read, we sincerely apologize.
It was certainly not our intention nor Bill Carey’s to discount anyone’s service or sacrifice — nor was the message intended to belittle Veterans Day commemorations and expressions of thanks.
The message was intended to be one veteran’s thoughts on politicization and commercialization of a solemn day of observance and how best to honor service and sacrifice, but the tone of the delivery upset many readers.
Concerned readers noted that a coupon and a simple, “Thank you for your service,” can be seen as grateful gestures of reconciliation for veterans who were mistreated upon coming home, returned to a nation indifferent to their service and sacrifice or suffered physical as well as unseen traumas.
What was missing from our November issue was perspective, and we will give space in a future issue to offer that perspective on how Veterans Day celebrations and other gestures help the veteran community.
To our veterans and their families, we are grateful for your service and the incredible sacrifices that have been made to secure our freedoms. We apologize for missing the mark on this column, and we appreciate your feedback.
Chris Kirk, editor
The Tennessee Magazine
Watch those pets!
I enjoy receiving your magazine each month.
In the November issue, the Home Energy Q&A section features a photo of a dog looking at a Christmas tree.
The caption reads “A tree decked out in festive décor is a welcome sight to two and four-legged loved ones.”
Please remind readers that holiday trees and décor can be hazardous for our pets, so make sure pets are supervised around holiday décor, especially lights.
Thank you!
Linda Collins, Cumberland EMC
Editor’s response:
Thank you very much for well-reasoned word of caution. The canine model featured in our energy column appears well-behaved, but I’m sure there are plenty of pets with an adventurous — maybe even mischievous — streak. So, yes, please keep your four-legged family members in mind as you deck the halls this holiday season. In addition to shock and choking hazards presented by lights, also remember that some festive plants can make pets sick — as can human food and drink. Consult your veterinarian for more information on treats that are appropriate for your pets.
