When you are out and about and happen upon them take pause and thank a soldier, a policeman, a fireman, or a prison guard today. Walk over, proffer your hand, and say “Thank you for what you do. I appreciate it.” Parents, walk your children over and tell them, “This is one of the good guys. He (she) makes you safe because of what he does.”
Don’t worry if they’re shy or awkward or don’t know what to say. They are used to getting their recognition from their own ranks, from those who share their trials, their mutual bond. They don’t know how to act when a “civilian” takes notice, so they will be shy and fumble their words. But you need to know, even though they might not say it, your appreciation, your simple “thank you” is important and they will carry it away with them.
Don’t be afraid to meet those who have made the choice to quietly serve and protect, those who do those things the rest of us shy away from, those who safeguard what we believe and enjoy. They are not “them”, they are “us”, and while they will be embarrassed by the attention, the recognition, go out of your way and let them know that you are aware of what they do and that you’re glad they are doing it.