A special Fourth of July salute from Robin Meade

Anchor Robin Meade

Yesterday morning our VIP tour came through the studio like it does every Thursday, and I stopped to chat with the viewers afterward. I was struck by one of them, who said she loved watching our daily "Salute to Troops" segment on "Morning Express with Robin Meade" and she thanked me profusely for showing the segment on air.

I thought to myself, 'Ah she must know some folks in the military ... or maybe her father or grandfather fought on a foreign shore ... or maybe she's a patriotic woman especially feeling the red white and blue headed into the Fourth of July weekend.'

Here's what I learned about her during our chat: She is not only a viewer grateful to our current troops who are serving in harm’s way, but she is also a veteran and has just retired after 28 years in the service.

28 years!

I told her, in so many words, “Wait a minute ... don't thank me for a TV segment, let the rest of us thank you for your service!"

It’s in these moments we are reminded of the stellar character of our military men and women who are so selfless in doing their job.

So as the rest of us celebrate Independence Day with fireworks, hotdogs and parades....a big thank you and salute to all the servicemembers who can't be home this holiday weekend ... because you are doing your job.

It’s an effort for which we are all grateful. Thank you for your service!