Salute America’s Veterans

Koch VETS encourages you to pause today to salute our nation’s veterans who accepted the challenge to serve our country and preserve our freedom and way of life. Their willingness to give freely and unselfishly in defense of our democratic principles has sustained our safety and liberty.

Veterans Day is a time to thank all those who accepted the nation’s challenge and honorably served in the U.S. Military – in times of war or peace.

The Great War, World War I, ended at the 11th hour on the 11th day of the 11th month in 1918. In 1919, Americans celebrated the signing of the Armistice. In 1926, Congress passed a resolution for a national observance on November 11th, and in 1938 they made Armistice Day a national holiday. It wasn’t until 1954 that President Eisenhower changed the federal holiday’s name to Veterans Day. For four years in the early 70’s, the national holiday was moved to the fourth Monday in October as part of the Uniform Holidays Bill, but President Ford returned Veterans Day to November 11th due to the historical significance of the date.

America needs men and women with pride in their country and faith in freedom, unafraid to declare: “I believe in liberty and justice and will fight to defend the dignity of man.” – Richard K Sorenson, USMC Medal of Honor 

The restoration of Veterans Day to November 11 not only preserves the historical significance of the date but helps focus attention on its important purpose: A celebration to memorialize veterans of all wars. It is a day to pay tribute to every man and woman who has served the United States of America with distinction, during peace or war.

“Veterans put their lives on the line to guarantee the freedoms we enjoy; they did not run from battle, yield to fear, or abandon their cause.” – Judd Greg

Around six percent of all living Americans have ever served in the U.S. military. These men and women – ordinary people performing extraordinary service – heard the call of duty and answered it. They left their families and their homes and dedicated themselves to improve the lives of others. They defended territory and people, preserved and protected the integrity of our national principles, and ensured our countries’ liberty and freedom endured. They made a wonderful contribution to mankind and our country not for recognition or fame or even the honor we bestow upon them today. They served to protect our country out of patriotism, and for their love of country.

“This nation will remain the land of the free only so long as it is the home of the brave.” – Elmer Davis

Today, less than half of one percent of our population serves our great nation. This small band of warriors have pledged to serve and protect the 99 percent who enjoy the benefits of peace and prosperity. Our heroes’ vigilance and valor enhance our country’s safety and security. Nevertheless, their contributions and gallantry are often overlooked, frequently underappreciated, and commonly taken for granted because many in the majority honestly believe freedom really is free. 

“Those who expect to reap the blessings of freedom must undergo the fatigue of supporting it.” – Thomas Paine

Veterans Day is unique in that we honor our living military veterans and those who are actively serving in our Armed Forces. This occasion is a blessing, and we should exercise it with pride, purpose, and enthusiasm. Every American is a beneficiary of our veterans’ service and sacrifice; and, therefore, we should honor their devotion by showing our gratitude for at least one day.

“Accept Challenge, so that you may feel the exhilaration of victory.” – George S. Patton

On November 11, 2020, let’s make sure all our veterans know how much we appreciate them. Our brave and few warriors know that the liberties we enjoy are not guaranteed. So, they volunteered to serve and protect America to advance and defend U.S. values, interests, and objectives. They selflessly served so we can remain safe and free.

“Charlie-Mike"