It was in Navy boot camp, and if you've ever been through boot camp you know that speaking during meals is forbidden. Not even a whisper.

Then service week arrived and the chain of command ordered me to work the mess hall. The job was to pass out cups at the beverage section in order to move the line as fast as possible.

Being on service week, I was permitted to talk. Used that loophole to smile and give each recruit their cup by name. "Here you go, Miller." Read the names off their uniforms. It was the only time all day that somebody treated them like a human being.

The smiles of gratitude were priceless.