Eighty-eight years ago today, on the 11th hour of the 11th day of the 11th month, America's first great overseas crusade came to a successful end. Each year on the anniversary of this victory, we honor the service of all Veterans. Here's part of what the Secretary of the Navy, Donald Winter, had to say:
On Veteran’s Day, America honors those who have served in uniform. It is a day that reminds us that a nation’s freedom exists only as long as its citizens are willing to defend it.The message sent out by the Chairman of the Joint Chiefs is here. To all those who've served, or loved those who did: Thank you for supporting our freedoms.
Throughout our history, brave Americans have answered the call to duty in defense of this nation. Those who have fallen while following this path of honor will forever live as heroes in the annals of American history, and we will always stand humbled by their sacrifice. You who serve today do so willingly with unbounded dedication -- stepping forward to ensure that the freedom we enjoy as a nation is protected from those who wish to take it away.
America’s destiny as a beacon of liberty in a turbulent world is built on the courage and patriotic devotion of all who serve. Let us resolve to be worthy of the sacrifices made by our nation’s veterans.
