ABOUT THE VETERAN

From the time when we had to sever the rule of a tyrant King of the world’s greatest empire – who garnished the fruits of their lives and land; to the years when the entire world faced overwhelming aggression and terror;  to the armed conflicts of today – those who answered the call to defend the nation were on hand.  The Veteran is one who shares the broadest base of diversity than any other group in history.  They come forth as sons and daughters of Bakers and Bankers, Farmers and Doctors, Journeymen – tradesman – and apprentices; from children of diplomats and dignitaries – to common working people.  Many national heredities, religions and races.  Many faces and people who shared a devotion to their country and they secured its sovereignty, liberty and longevity.

They also shared this in common.  When the nation was in peril and faced foreign aggression – they came forward.  They were willing to leave behind their homes, families, communities, vocations, belongings and lifestyles to answer the call to duty.  They were of dignity and devotion to country. They were willing to go to a war torn Europe of powerful dictators and armies, to savage fighting on Pacific Islands, to far away deserts and jungles. They faced giants with a lust to take the world as theirs. Their foes were often enormous, but not as big as what was inside those who became American veterans united together.

In times of peace, they all came to service of their country not knowing when at any time some foreign despot may try to drop his axe on the United States of America. They trained and were taught to be ready. They were the ones who answered the call of duty. Veterans and those lost kept America and much of the world free.

So many are among us here today. Some are ailing, many are bearing scars. We owe the Veteran a debt of gratitude and respect and our genuine appreciation for what they have done.