Vaughn Moore deflects any credit as a hero when being called a veteran.
Like many, his service never required him to fight on the front lines. 9/11, he says, is about remembering all those who have died for our country.
But, while he honors them, his friends and neighbors can't help but do the same to him.
Five days a week for the last 10 years, Moore has put on his boots and gone for a walk. He doesn't always carry an American flag – just on those days when we all think of those who have lost their lives for this country.
"It’s my small personal tribute to all the people who made everything that we have possible," Moore said.
On Friday, while Moore was walking, a lady stopped and asked if he was a veteran.
"I said yes and she dug into her purse and gave me the flag with this little note inside: 'I am part of our American Flag that has flown over a home in Indiana,'" Moore said. "'I can no longer fly. The sun and winds have caused me to become tattered and torn. Please carry me as a reminder that you are not forgotten.'"
Moore said it was a touching reminder that he doesn't walk alone.
"It makes me proud more than I can … I don't have the words," Moore said. "It just reaches way down in deep, and you want to stand up and stand proud and I try. I try."
