Veteran’s Day

Each year, America unwaveringly celebrates November 11 to remember and recognize our men and women who fought our Nation’s wars and defended us during periods of restless peace.  We renew our commitment to recognize the service and sacrifices of our Veterans who were driven by their unwavering devotion to an enduring principle, Indivisible, Liberty, and Justice for all.  As the beneficiaries of the blessings and opportunities they have provided, we will always remember their selfless service. Many gave their last full measure, and many Veterans of every generation long endure memories of what they saw and the hardships they bore.  

I hope you read Silent Freedom:  A Memoir of Service with the 101st Airborne Division Air Assault in Iraq.  It is a prime example of memories of how our valiant men and women fought conflicts, such as the battles in Iraq and helped us sustain the freedom we enjoy to this day.  

America without her soldiers would be like God without His angels.  There is nothing nobler than risking your life for your country.  I have long believed that sacrifice is the pinnacle of patriotism.  This nation will remain the land of the free only so long as it is the home of the brave.

These are the sentiments expressed by Veterans of every conflict, those who bore the bloody battles of the American Civil War, the hellish trenches of the First World War, the frozen mountains of Korea, the jungles of Vietnam and the cities, the deserts and mountains of Iraq and Afghanistan.  

            Thank you all for being our Veterans’ advocates.  I have never been proud to have served with fellow Veterans, side by side in the trenches and in the world that we live in today.  It is such a great opportunity to watch how our young men and women have transformed to valiant heroes.  With faith and hope, we will continue to help make a better future.    May God continue to bless our great nation.