For Some Veterans, Thanks Can Go Too Far

We’ll put this right out there: It’s time to honor our veterans, and a lot of us want to convey our sheer gratefulness for what they’ve done to keep us free and safe and secure while recognizing them in a way that remains respectful.

Fair enough. But when is it OK to thank a man or woman spotted wearing anything that indicates he or she has been, or is, in the military? Is it OK to extend a hand for a shake? Or even to ask for a hug?

The issue is one of privacy, modesty and when thanking one is appropriate and when it goes too far, and the concerns are real as indicated by a recent Dear Prudence column with a headline, "I’m a military officer, and I’m tired of being showered with gratitude by strangers."

"I get thanked for my service to the point of distraction," a military officer wrote, seeking advice. "I’ve had parents force their kids to come up to me to thank me in front of my own kids at school drop-off ... I often stop by on my way home to pick up ingredients for dinner, and for whatever reason the produce aisle seems to bring out the most obsessed veteran-hunters. Handshakes. Bro-fists and chest bumps. Crazy-uncle jingoism. And so many uninvited hugs."

Clearly, some thanks can go too far. But how far is too far?

We want to get this right, because our respect should be genuine and sincere without being overbearing. Veterans: Please help us understand in the comments how or if you want us to recognize your service to America, and what it means to you. Others: How and when do you determine whether to offer thanks?

Photo by Spencer Platt/Getty Images News/Getty Images