From the beginning of our country’s history, millions of men and women of all ages have answered the call of duty to defend the liberty and democracy we hold so sacred. The ideal of laying one’s life down for the freedom of their nation is one of the highest honors any person can have bestowed upon them.

The courage to walk on a battlefield and represent the greatest country in the world has been a tradition for this nation for generations and it comes from people of all different walks of life, from different backgrounds and from diverse social statuses.

This coming Monday, November 11 we celebrate an important National Holiday as we honor each and every person who has worn the cloth of this nation. We celebrate not only those who lost their lives defending our freedoms, but every single Veteran who willingly went forth to represent the values we treasure so dearly.

As a nation we owe a debt to our fellow service personnel. When they swear an oath to defend our nation we owe them more than we can ever repay them. We are obligated to give them the best training, the best equipment available and to care for them and their families while they are away and when they return home. They are to be honored to the highest degree, above all others and without discrimination for any reason. Those who have suffered injuries can and should expect the best of care, the best that American medicine can provide.

Our 20 million plus veterans have earned a future filled with opportunity and dignity. If you see or pass a Veteran give them a salute or a word of encouragement. Many are suffering from disorders they received while answering the call of duty for the sake of our nation’s freedom. They deserve to be treated with respect. Never slandered or pushed aside.

Veteran’s Day was originally known as ‘Armistice Day.’ It commemorated the formal end of World War 1 at the 11th hour of the 11th month of 1918. It was officially renamed Veterans Day in 1954 following the Korean War and World War 11. Out of respect for all Veterans, the federal holiday calls for the U.S. Flag to be properly displayed on all government buildings. It’s truly a celebratory day to honor all American Veterans for their patriotism, and willingness to serve and sacrifice for the common good of our nation. While we can never fully repay the debt we owe them, we can honor their service with the respect, support and recognition they deserve. Many still carry the scars from their service, both visible and invisible, their duty, bravery and sacrifice is the reason America breathes free today. No matter where today takes you, find at least a moment to remember those who gave so much to you, your family and your country. You owe it to them. We all do.