Veterans of the military are people who make huge sacrifices for their country by leaving their loved ones and putting their lives on the line to protect our freedoms. Some of the veterans who make the biggest sacrifices are those who end up being captured by the enemy and becoming prisoners of war. These POWs often go through unspeakable horrors, and readjusting to life back home can be incredibly difficult for them.

Ralph MacLean is a veteran who has every right to regret his service in the Canadian military. He served in the military during World War II, when he was sent overseas to Hong Kong. Ralph was captured by the enemy on Christmas Day in 1941, and he remained a prisoner of war until he was rescued by American soldiers at the end of the war in August of 1945.

“It was a very traumatic and frightening part of my life and remains almost as vivid as when it happened,” Ralph recently said.

Now an elderly man, Ralph was just approached by a little girl who asked him if he would serve in the military again. Despite everything he went through, Ralph did not hesitate with his response.

“Yes, for you,” he replied.

This response perfectly exemplifies the bravery that veterans who have served their country exhibit. They have been through Hell and back, all to protect the rest of us. This is why veterans deserve our utmost respect and gratitude at all times.

God bless all military veterans, and thank you all for your service!