I am honored to wave the flag, express my patriotism and pride in America, and say “thank you” to the men and women, past and present, who have served in our nation’s military.
Thus, it is that on this annual occasion we recall the valor, bravery and sacrifice of those who served to defend and, at times, fight for freedom and liberty.
Veterans Day is that special day of the year we gather together to honor, salute and acknowledge every patriotic man and woman who has ever worn the uniform of our armed forces.
There are now a little over 23 million veterans nationwide, and more than 774,000 reside in Georgia. Hundreds of thousands of young men and women are serving in today’s U.S. Armed Forces.
All have faced the greatest test that can be applied to American citizenship — being willing to risk one’s life to defend this country’s freedom and liberties. Every person who has worn a military uniform and served with honor has passed this test of citizenship.
Veterans Day gives an opportunity to pause and reflect on how blessed we are in the United States. We should take time to recall what that cost. Many have suffered the shock and pain of combat. Some have become disabled for life; many have made the ultimate sacrifice. All who served have given up some of the best years of their lives. Why did they do it?
Simply because there was a job to be done and they were the ones “called” to do it. What was the result of their sacrifice? Simply this: America’s freedoms and liberties remain ours to control.
If we value anything more than freedom, we will lose our freedom. If we value comfort and money more, we will lose those too.
We may be uncertain about many things in America today, but we should have no reason to be uncertain about the respect and honor we owe to those who have served in this nation’s armed forces.
And how can Georgians show their gratitude? Take an active part — wave the flag in local “Welcome Home” veteran events, encourage local businesses to “Hire a Vet,” and go visit and volunteer time to serve hospitalized veterans at our two state veterans nursing homes, VA and private medical facilities.
We must always remember that America is No. 1 thanks to our veterans.
Lastly, to those young Americans in uniform today here and around the globe, we say Godspeed, and send out to you our prayers and sincere wishes for your safe return home.
Pete Wheeler is Georgia’s Commissioner for Veterans Affairs.
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