American Valor – Military Tribute

"I have been involved with Deaf people over half my life and now own and operate an interpreting referral agency and work as a nationally certified interpreter. I find your mission admirable. Unfortunately, regardless of the region, I have never seen a Deaf person sign, “thank you” using the sign you are showing in your video. The sign, “thank you” has the same general movement but the placement in the video is incorrect and should start from the chin not the chest. The sign you are using is more associated with “willing, admit, etc” It would seem that a Deaf person was not brought into consult on the project or this mistake never would have been disseminated to the extent that I’m sure it has. I’m sure that it would be costly to correct now. Anyway, it’s too bad." Christine.

Thankfully, Scott wrote back to us and answered Christine’s concerns. Scott wrote:

"Actually Christine, it’s not too bad at all! It’s incredible…the symbol was created as a new gesture to say “thank you from the bottom of my heart”. We could have easily just used the symbol for “thank you” but in this case it’s something different and specific to those who serve us on a daily basis, it’s to express a gratitude deeper and more appreciative. I think it’s more disheartening that you think the Deaf community cannot accept a new sign into their language given the current circumstances and how many soldiers are sacrificing everything to provide us with the life we have now." Scott Truitt.

Thank you Scott for your reply and for your efforts to the Gratitude Campaign. If more people were looking for ways to thank and support our troops instead of judging what they do, it would be much nicer for everyone. Dad.