When I was able to get on a military transport home to the East Coast from the West just before going on to Vietnam, it was all officers on board except me (then a Lance Corporal). Regardless of rank, I was fully treated as an equal. When we arrived at New Jersey's Maguire AFB, anti-Vietnam protesters surrounded the gates, blocking buses in to NYC. Several high-ranking officers invited me to share their cab, at no cost (knowing I cleared about $100 a month).
When I returned from Vietnam and was mustered out, all my college friends -- most opposed to the US in Vietnam -- threw me a welcome home party. It was totally sincere and non-political. Many told me I had experienced something they couldn't imagine and wouldn't risk, and wondered what that would add to my life or diminish in theirs. -- However, my first date after that was with a girl who asked if I'd killed any babies in Vietnam. I didn't date for many months after.
My point is that almost any who have an inkling, a modicum of sense, have respect for our service. As decades have gone by, most Americans have realized that respect is due.
All this is by way of introducing you to read all of Justin Timberlake's awakening to respect. Then, for rueful chuckles at a complete fool in a dangerous position of academic authority, I invite you to read this post, and wonder "why can't this jerk be more like Justin Timberlake?"
