I went on a trip with my family to take a vacation. The airports were terrible as was the total disorganization of the airlines. I was originally going to write about the disasters and hazards that a traveling business person runs into and the downhill slide of the airlines into a level of disorganization that seems like kids are running it. But something happened when we missed our connecting flight (we were stuck on the tarmac for 45 minutes) that changed my mind. Today’s post is on gratitude, appreciation, and selfless service - all traits entrepreneurs exhibit as well as another special group of individuals. Here’s the story.

We ran (literally) from D to C terminal, in the Dallas/Ft. Worth International Airport, and were told upon arrival at the ticket counter that we could not get on the plane that was still parked at the gate because they already locked the door. I was hot and ready to pummel someone. But it wasn’t the ticket counter clerk’s fault, so I politely asked how to file a complaint and went on. As I finished up with the ticket clerk, acquiring the proper instructions on how to formally file my grievance with American Airlines and grabbing our tickets for the next flight (back on the other side of the airport), I turned and noticed my wife looking a little choked up. I told her not to let the airlines and the airports get to her like that. To my chagrin, that was not what was causing such emotion. She had saw a gentleman sitting there all alone and felt the need to tell him that we appreciated him and all that he does. My kids (3, 7, and 10) went and told the gentleman that you for doing what you do. The gentleman was a soldier in the United States Armed Forces.

We are big supporters of the US Military. We donate to the USO and other charities that help the soldiers and their families. I also have a widget on my MySpace profile that allows you to donate to help the soldiers. My wife has been designing a personal “Thank You” program to tell injured soldiers that they are appreciated and to help teach our sons the true sacrifices these men and women give on a regular basis. I think you get the point. We love our soldiers and appreciate all they do to preserve our freedoms.

So, the rest of the trip we stopped and thanked each and every member of the military we ran into while in the airport and on the plane. It helped turned our Lemony Snickets Moments (series of unfortunate events) into ones of opportunity to express appreciation. We did it enough that it rubbed off on others. On our last flight (which departed 15 minutes late) there were three individuals on our plane that were identifiable as members of the active military. Before we disembarked the plane, the lead flight attendant got on the loud speaker and announced we had special guests on board. She proceeded to tell those individuals in the Armed Forces how much they were appreciated and the entire plane erupted with clapping and cheers. It truly was a sight to behold.

On a day to day basis we have many freedoms in the Free Marketplace that can easily be taken for granted. We have those freedoms because brave men and women paid for that freedom in blood. Brave men and women have also died to maintain our freedoms. Regardless of whether you agree with the US being in Iraq or not, you should still be appreciative of those soldiers. They lay their lives on the line everyday to help ensure that America stays free. They are the gatekeepers that kick the crap out of the bad guys that try to give Americans black eyes and broken teeth. They sleep in mud holes, eating MREs, and are forced to consistently be away from their families and loved ones. Our soldiers are true heroes that deserve our respect and gratitude. They never ask for “thank yous” or special treatment. Most view what they do as part of their duty. The absolute least we can do, while enjoying all the freedoms they fight for, is to give them our support and a simple “Thank You.”

Show your gratitude and tell a soldier that they are appreciated. You can do so in person when you see them. Don’t be shy. And don’t even think about it being awkward because you don’t know them. They don’t know you and they are laying their life on the line for you, your family, your loved ones, and your way of life. You can also write letters and ask the USO to deliver them to random soldiers. You can send them to me and I will make sure your gratitude is expressed. Or at the bare minimum, write, “Thank you for your sacrifices, for without them I would not enjoy the freedoms I have” on a piece of paper and put it in your wallet or purse. The next time you see a soldier, simply take it out and give it to them.

As entrepreneurs, we are always trying to change the world and make it better. Normally their is a monetary angle. This is one selfless way you can help change the world and make it better. You won’t be paid in money. You have already received your payment time and time again - you enjoy freedom don’t you? Support your soldiers and let them know that the people they fight for care.