And these notes of appreciation remind me that I have never developed an appropriate reply to those who "thank me for my service" ... What can I say? I'm usually choking up by the time they finish their remarks, but even then, it seems like I could come up with something better than what I say now ... "Thanks for your thanks"

Your ideas are welcomed and will be a big help to me and others who now find ourselves in the awkward position of receiving thanks and sometimes even commendation for what we think was just doing our duty and surviving, undeserving of any special recognition.