From State Rep. Tom Leonard
Colder weather is coming, and the holiday season is quickly approaching.
Nestled in between all the other holidays designed to bring family and friends together is one that both celebrates our nation’s history and reminds us to thank our veterans for their service.
November 11 is Veterans Day, and, as the name suggests, it reminds us to thank our veterans for their service. First known as Armistice Day to mark the end of World War I, Veterans Day sets aside a special time to honor the brave men and women who have served their communities and our country in the armed forces.
Many people confuse Memorial Day and Veterans Day. They are similar, but while Memorial Day is a day to honor all of America’s war dead, Veterans Day honors all of our country’s veterans, both living and dead.
November 11 recognizes those who have protected our way of life in the past and reminds us to thank those who continue to protect our way of life today. It is a day dedicated to making sure our veterans know just how much we appreciate the sacrifices they have made – and still make each day – in order to keep our country free.
Our veterans protect our democracy, our freedom and our way of life.
I’m sure if I talked to 10 people in my neighborhood, they would all have a different idea of what it means to be an American. But that’s the beauty of this country; it allows us to define our own vision of life, liberty and the pursuit of happiness.
Our soldiers protect that right to be an American – whatever that may mean to you or me. It is the land of the free, because it is also the home of the brave.
Let’s take the time this Veterans Day to express our appreciation to our veterans, both past and present. Without our veterans, we wouldn’t be where we are today.