Veterans remember Fort Hood Soldiers

NORFOLK, Va. - The military community is trying to get back to normal after Thursday's shooting rampage at Fort Hood. But the shootings are still on the minds of many.

Friday night, the U.S. Joint Forces Command held a concert at Chrysler Hall in Norfolk. But the fanfare was just on the surface. Veterans say it doesn't matter what branch you serve in, the military community is like family. And Friday night, as they sat listening to patriotic music they couldn't help but think of what happened at Fort Hood Army Post in Texas.

The U.S. Joint Forces band is made up of members from every branch, just like in combat -- everyone is working together to achieve one goal.

The military brotherhood is a special one, a strong bond felt in good times and bad.

"It's a dangerous business and the danger starts when you are in basic training," said Army veteran Robert Morton.

Those who survived and those who don't are honored for the dangers they face. Thursday, Soldiers learned the dangers aren't just overseas.

"We know that harms way is something that involves all of those who wear the uniform and pointedly we were reminded of that yesterday with the tragedy at Fort Hood," one service member told WAVY.com.

Retired Chief Master Sergeant Grant Williams, a veteran in the crowd -- a Tuskegee Airman -- was stunned to hear of a fellow serviceman accused of firing at other soldiers, killing 13.

"This thing that happened yesterday, it's beyond comparison to the American way of life," said Williams. "Something caused him to lose his cool. I feel bad for everybody including the guy who did the shooting. He's obviously very disturbed."

Veterans we spoke with hope the tragedy can become a lesson.

"Teach the people, especially our service people, teach them what life is all about...let them know that they're not supposed to kill one another, but to lift one another up," Williams continued.

Veterans say it's important that we never forget. That we learn from the past.