"This Veterans’ Day, we unite as a nation to remember and honor the millions of brave men and women who have served our nation in uniform. Because of their noble service and tremendous sacrifices, the United States stands as a beacon of democracy, hope and opportunity to the rest of the world.

"To all veterans and their families, I thank you for your courage, your character, your strength, and the enduring power of your example. All Americans owe you a debt of gratitude that words cannot repay.

"Our thoughts and prayers also are with our veterans of tomorrow - the 1.4 million Americans serving in our Armed Forces, including the 150,000 servicemen and women who are in harm’s way today in Iraq and Afghanistan."

– U.S. Rep. Benjamin L. Cardin