Veteran’s Corner

Tom Krabbenhoft

 I recall as a young soldier being immersed into the soldier life, the “old guys” always had wisdom. The words were not the most eloquent or commonly found in spelling bees, but they always resonated. One day discussing human behavior good bad or indifferent I don’t recall which, one of our respected captains that was a hardened Vietnam combat vet told us “there are three types of people:

1. There are sheep, people that go about their day to day routine, trying to live their best lives.

2. There are wolves. These are your criminals, sociopaths, scammers, cheats etc. They take from the sheep.

3. There are sheep dogs. These are the protectors. They place themselves out of the comfort zone so the sheep can graze peacefully. They can be parents, military, fire fighters and law enforcement. Being young the words did not have much meaning. As I grow older they make more sense.

Last week we senselessly lost a sheep dog to a wolf and three others were injured by this wolf.

I never met officer Jake Wallin, however I feel like I knew him. We have mutual friends from military service. When I watched a video of him he stated he has been to more countries then states. It perfectly sums up the life of a young guardsman today. Although young, his experiences overseas advanced his understanding of the highs and lows of human behavior far above his age. Sleepless nights, bad food and rotten conditions I’m certain tempered him. Having dozens of roommates, some you don’t like, makes you a better listener. These experiences make one a better person, grateful for the small things. Sometimes one has to remind themselves yesterday was the only hard day. Hearing Officer Wallin’s words reminded me of all the good people I’ve met in military service. Many of these people are serving Law Enforcement today.

Officer Wallin like so many veterans wanted to take all these experiences and protect and serve his community. Sadly he made the ultimate sacrifice.

Veterans and the LE community have an immediate bond. Swearing an oath to “protect” and possibly risking everything to do so is a common bond. Having to place your life in the hands of another is another thing. We both say goodbye to our families knowing it may be the last time.

You can look at how, who and where all the anti-law enforcement talk started in the last few years. We all have an opinion where it began.

When I listen and look at the people critical of LE and the military. I ask myself  what are they doing to make it better. I wonder if they have even sacrificed missing lunch for a cause.

I think about the person that did this. Have you ever wondered if your mother or wife stood between him and something he wanted, what would he do to them?

Blessed are we that have brave men and women that are still guarding the flock.

Send your veteran-related items to me at 11btwk@gmail.com.