Dear Editor,
As we open our poppy campaign, I want to extend my thanks and appreciation to the lady who stepped in at the Walmart checkout and insisted on using her card to pay for the groceries my wife and I had just put through.
I did not understand the gesture as we do not generally appear to be "in need." I was "gobsmacked" and frankly speechless until she said words to the effect that "you are a veteran and you have earned it."
I realized that I was wearing my "Veteran" ball cap and mumbled something in response. I don't know if I even said thank you to her. I simply reached out and gave her a hug. I hope she was not offended by that reflex response.
We will be sure to pay that incredible act of kindness forward. Such actions are remarkable and speak to the manner in which some individuals respond to our collective service. Thank you.
Malcolm Hughes
Okotoks