I appreciate the humble response and it's what I hear from all military, cops and first responders that I know and talk to.
I'm simply doing my job, no thanks required.
My feeling is that, even though appreciation isn't asked for, those of us that benefit from these folks putting their lives at risk, (example being your previous statement to not being owed anything) should at the very least acknowledge the service they provide to us at every opportunity.
That's what I feel should have happened with this young man at graduation.
If we allow ourselves to get to the point to not recognize, appreciate, single out and acknowledge folks like this young man, we're in trouble.
Think about it, I'm talking about folks that are willing to risk their lives for complete strangers...I sure don't think a little appreciation shown when given the opportunity is too much.
JMO