Congressman Cliff Stearns
Florida's Sixth District
First elected 1988

Veterans

As our nation is once again engaged in combat overseas, it is appropriate for us to reflect on what America’s veterans have given us. Each day that we are free to express our opinion, to worship in the place of our own choosing, or to exercise our right to vote is a gift from America’s veterans

John Adams, in a letter to his wife, explained the sacrifice and the fruit of service. “I go to war so that my children can work the fields and their children can enjoy poetry and the arts.” As a businessman, a community leader, and an elected official -- I have been honored with many awards and titles. However, one title that I carry with great pride is that of veteran.

The Veterans are the only group of Americans that have earned their benefits, they didn't just happen to be here, they earned it on the battlefield, they earned it in service to their nation. As the guardians of our freedoms, these men and women are owed our respect and our support. America has a special debt to her veterans, and we have a sacred responsibility to fulfill the promises made to them.

Today, we have more than 25 million veterans in America. As a member of Congress, I am committed to meeting the needs of these brave men and women.