VETERAN 2

what they were told, and they deserve the recognition for that,” Sanchez said. “It's different now, service members draw respect from the masses, and it's not uncommon to hear a thank you or gesture of gratitude. Those gestures, those positive comments help, they help us heal.:

He continued, “We fought hard, and we didn't lose the war. Every fire fight we went into we won, but we were over there fighting with one hand tied behind our back as the politicians fought the war on the home front.”

Once Sanchez arrived home, he began adjusting to life back at home. In 1974, he became one of the first three who went through the Radiology Program at Scenic Mountain Medical Center. After receiving his certification from that program, he went on to serve 33 years at the West Texas VA Medical Center, where he continued to serve veterans.

“I wanted to help my fellow veterans and during that time I feel like I did a lot of good,” he said.

The duty of a veteran never truly ends, even years after they've returned home. That commitment to serve his country was stirred once again as he - along with the rest of the world - watched 9/11 events unfold. As a veteran that attack hit a little bit harder and the need to once again defend his country began to well up inside.

“I am proud to have served my country... I would do it again,” he said.

Amanda Duforat is the Managing Editor at the Big Spring Herald. To contact her, e-mail editor@bigspringherald.com or call 432-263-7331.