The following true story is to honor all the veterans who know that freedom is not free:

On Nov. 10 at 18:27 hours Basic Life Support Rescue Unit 808 of the Los Angeles Fire Department responded to an 88year-old female in the 16000 block of Plummer Street. Upon arrival, we found her anxious, sitting in a chair in her living room, complaining of a severe skin rash. The rash was caused by a reaction to antibiotics for bronchitis.

Initially, she was fearful and confused, perhaps suffering from mild dementia.

Then I said, “I bet you served in World War II.”

Phyllis perked up. “I was a Marine,” she said.

“Where did you serve?”

“I was stationed in Camp Lejune.”

“I bet you have some pictures?”

“Yes, I do.”

By now, Phyllis was alert and oriented, acting 40 years younger. She stood up, and I escorted her by offering my right arm and elbow as we walked over to her bedroom.

There on the dresser was a portrait of a young beautiful woman Marine.

She asked to go to Northridge hospital. Technically, we should have gone to a closer hospital.

“Phyllis, since you served your country, we are going to make a special exception for you and take you to Northridge.”

Nurses at the hospital picked up on her immediately. We were admitted into triage ahead of two other patients.

She got a wheelchair and was bumped up to the head of the line to be examined by a nurse.

Just before leaving, I asked Phyllis, “What was your rank?”

Phyllis perked up, braced herself and responded proudly, “I was a sergeant.”

My thanks and respect to all our military veterans. Mike Dunn Newbury Park

Dunn serves on the Conejo Valley Unified School District Board of Education.