DEAR ABBY: Although I have read your column for years, I have never felt so strongly about something that I needed to write to you. However, I recently saw the movie "Saving Private Ryan."
Abby, I have never been so affected by a film in all my life. I'm a 29-year-old woman who has, thank God, never lived through a war -- except the Gulf War, which was short-lived. I was aware of most of the aspects of World War II because of what I had learned in school. However, it never before hit me with the impact it did when I saw it on the big screen. It was so realistic, I felt I was there.
I'm writing to thank all the men and women who have served our country, not only in times of war -- but also in peacetime. I have never felt as much respect and gratitude as I do now. And thank you, too, Steven Spielberg, for bringing this movie to the screen for all to see. -- THANKFUL AMERICAN IN NEW YORK
DEAR THANKFUL: Thank you for your timely sentiments, which I am sharing with all veterans today. Freedom-loving Americans owe a great debt to our servicemen and women who daily put themselves at risk to serve this nation. They deserve our unqualified support, and at least a moment of respect for their many sacrifices.