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The importance of Veterans Day

  • Published
  • By Gen. Ellen M. Pawlikowski
  • Air Force Materiel Command Commander
WRIGHT-PATTERSON AIR FORCE BASE, Ohio --  In 1954, President Dwight D. Eisenhower signed a bill establishing Nov. 11 as Veterans Day. He stated, “I do hereby call upon all of our citizens to observe Nov. 11 as Veterans Day. On that day let us solemnly remember the sacrifices of all those who fought so valiantly on the seas, in the air and on foreign shores, to preserve our heritage of freedom ..."

There are more than 21 million U.S. veterans currently living in our country, representing every conflict from World War II through the current War on Terror. Selflessly, they have served in an unfathomable capacity to ensure that our families and our way of life are secure. Together, we take this time to reflect on their sacrifice, and the sacrifices made by their families, in the course of their military service. We celebrate their contributions throughout our nation’s history and pay thanks to them in kind.

To all our veterans and their family members, thank you for your service. Thank you for your sacrifice. Thank you for answering your nation’s call.