Every Nov. 11, Americans pause to honor the men and women who have served in our armed forces. We gather at ceremonies, raise our flags and offer our thanks. But the gratitude we express on Veterans Day should remain with us throughout the year.
In November 1919, President Woodrow Wilson proclaimed the first commemoration of Armistice Day. In 1954, the holiday became Veterans Day, expanding its recognition to honor American veterans of all wars. Today, that observance calls on each of us to reflect on the service and sacrifice behind the freedoms we cherish.
When I think about what our veterans have given us, I am thankful for the great freedoms that define our nation: the ability to speak our minds, practice our faith and pursue our dreams.
But my gratitude is also deeply personal.
I think about watching my boys play baseball. Seeing my daughter earn her black belt. Taking in a movie with my family or walking into a local store. These everyday moments may seem small, but together they make up a life filled with opportunity, security and joy.
It is easy to take those moments for granted. Veterans Day reminds us to recognize the people whose service has helped preserve the country in which we enjoy them.
Behind every military uniform is a person with a family, hopes and responsibilities. Service can mean long separations from loved ones, missed birthdays and holidays, and hardships that those of us at home may never fully understand. Our gratitude should reflect an appreciation for those sacrifices, as well as for the families who share in them.
To our veterans, young and old: Thank you for serving this great country. Thank you for helping protect the opportunities my family and so many others hold dear. I am profoundly grateful to live in a place called America, and grateful to those who have defended it.
My appeal to our community is simple: Do not wait until next Veterans Day to say thank you.
When you meet a veteran in your daily life, take a moment to acknowledge their service. When you are with your children, explain why that service matters. Help them understand that heroism includes duty, sacrifice and the willingness to serve something greater than oneself.
Carry that appreciation into action by supporting local veterans’ organizations, listening when veterans choose to share their experiences and showing up for those who need a helping hand.
We can never fully repay the debt we owe our veterans. We can, however, make certain they know their service is remembered and valued, on Nov. 11 and every day that follows.
God bless our veterans, their families, and the United States of America.
Comments
No comments on this item Please log in to comment by clicking here