When I thank Vets for their service that always asked if I ever served. I tell them the truth, "no I did not" that's not something to lie about to make yourself look good. Bad enough we have (P)resident for kind that sheet.
I feel uncomfortable when I'm thanked for my service because I feel I owed our country for allowing me to serve our great nation. So when I'm "thanked", my reply is, "Thank You".