This Veterans Day, We Thank You for Your Service

“As we express our gratitude, we must never forget that the highest appreciation is not to utter words, but to live by them.”

— John F. Kennedy

How does a nation thank those who have died to protect us? Or who have been injured while keeping harm at bay? Or who have been willing to risk their futures so that we can live ours freely, at liberty to do and become whatever we want?

As President John Kennedy pointed out more than 50 years ago, words alone are not enough.

That said, we take this day to thank and honor all veterans, who through their selfless acts make our thanks seem paltry even when genuine and heartfelt. The least we can do each year is to reflect on your service and valor, and to give thanks for all of you who have returned to us.

“We remember those who were called upon to give all a person can give, and we remember those who were prepared to make that sacrifice if it were demanded of them in the line of duty, though it never was. Most of all, we remember the devotion and gallantry with which all of them ennobled their nation as they became champions of a noble cause.”

— Ronald Reagan