Thank you. To many, these are just two simple words. But to our veterans, they mean much more. Today, we honor the men and women who for generations have served our country with great sacrifice and dedication. We are blessed to live in the United States, and every day I am thankful for the service of our men and women in uniform.
Just a few days ago, I had the opportunity to present several long overdue service medals to Henry Huffman, a WWII veteran from Buena Vista. Mr. Huffman served aboard the USS Idaho as a member of the United States Navy Reserve. It’s an honor to hear the stories of veterans like Mr. Huffman. It is a reminder that our nation is free because of those who served. These are people and moments in our history that we cannot afford to forget as a nation.
One of the best ways we can thank our veterans is to make sure they have access to the care and support they deserve. I will continue working in the House of Representatives to build on the recent reforms Congress has made to the Department of Veterans Affairs. Those who have fought in defense of freedom should have an accessible system that works and meets the needs of those suffering from the mental and physical wounds of war.
Our veterans have made sacrifice after sacrifice so that we could live freely. They have answered the call to serve both in times of war and peace. They have stood guard on distant battlefields and here at home to protect the liberties at the core of the United States. As we celebrate Veterans Day, I encourage you to remember those who have served as well as the families and loved ones who have also made countless, and often unrecognized, sacrifices.
I hope you will join me in thanking our veterans – not just today, but every day.
Bob Goodlatte represents the Sixth District of Virginia in Congress.
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