Someone I know, more of an acquaintance than a friend, is about to leave for a tour of duty in Iraq. I would like to thank him for his service and wish him the best, but what is a good way to say it? I don't want to say good luck or best wishes...those sound a little too lighthearted for the occasion and I'm not too religious, so I feel awkward saying I'll be praying for him.
Thanks!
2007-09-17 12:28:45 · 10 answers · asked by graybear 4 in Society & Culture ➔ Etiquette
Everyone who deploys in my squadron has to check out with me first. I have a standard speech, I stand, look them squarely in the eye, shake their hand and say:
"Keep your eyes open and stay safe. It's an honor to shake your hand and we'll see you as soon as you get back."
2007-09-17 12:46:48 · answer #1 · answered by promethius9594 6 · 2⤊ 0⤋
Just a simple "Thank you for your service" means more to a service member than you will ever know. Just acknowledging what they are doing and the huge sacrifice they make each and every day can mean the world to them. If you are not religious and don't feel comfortable saying you will be praying for him, just let him know that as a citizen of this great country you stand behind him and support his efforts in Iraq.
2007-09-17 12:43:59 · answer #2 · answered by squidsgirl97 3 · 1⤊ 0⤋
Say how you feel! My husband is in Iraq now and when he was home on leave, we went on vacation. You would not believe how many people thanked him and told him they were praying for all the troops!! It means alot to the troops and their loved ones.
2007-09-17 12:34:17 · answer #3 · answered by mssandrar03 3 · 2⤊ 0⤋
I told my best friend 'good luck" and "I'll buy you a beer when you get back home" I have faith he is coming back home.
2007-09-17 12:36:05 · answer #4 · answered by Anonymous · 1⤊ 0⤋
Thank you for your service, and God bless you!
Short, sweet and to the point.
Ask him if he'd like you to write to him... if he agreees, slip him a piece of paper with your name/address on it.
Have a polite day!
2007-09-17 17:14:17 · answer #5 · answered by wyomugs 7 · 0⤊ 1⤋
how about be safe, i'll miss you. don't feel akward about telling him you'll pray for him. that's something most of the military truely appreciates.
2007-09-17 12:37:31 · answer #6 · answered by racer 51 7 · 2⤊ 0⤋
"Thanks for doing what you're doing" ... It seems weird but but Good Luck is something bad to say in my opinion, it makes it sound like something bad is going to happen so I hope it doesn't happen to you.
2007-09-17 12:34:17 · answer #7 · answered by DeadSurvivor 7 · 0⤊ 0⤋
watch your back , keep your guard up always, dont fall in love with the people. trust your gut shoot straight and come home
2007-09-17 12:39:34 · answer #8 · answered by highriselather 3 · 1⤊ 2⤋
good luck not getting your legs blown off by an i.e.d.
2007-09-17 23:26:39 · answer #9 · answered by Anonymous · 0⤊ 4⤋
keep your rear end down. read "All Quiet on the Western Front"
2007-09-17 12:37:29 · answer #10 · answered by John C 4 · 1⤊ 2⤋