E-Newsletter Signup

Barrett Statement on Remembering Veterans Day

Congressman Gresham Barrett Statement on Remembering this Veterans Day

"As a veteran myself, Veterans Day has a special place in my heart. I was fortunate to serve during a time of peace, unlike my father, my uncle and several classmates of mine from the Citadel, who chose to make the military their career.

"This past year I had two distinct opportunities to visit with veterans, one from World War II and another from the Iraq War. I met the World War II veteran, from South Carolina, during an Honor Flight to DC. Honor Flights allow World War II veterans to visit the nation’s capital.  They come to experience the memorial built in their honor, which is dedicated to their service and the memory of the fallen of that great war. Each day, over 1,200 members of “The Greatest Generation” pass away. We owe these valiant soldiers, men and women, an enormous debt of gratitude for their service. We also owe it to them that their sacrifice not be forgotten, or the fruit of their courageous efforts be squandered.

"I was also able to meet with a soldier from Anderson, recently wounded in the Iraq War, while he was recovering at Walter Reed Medical Center. This brave young soldier, wounded on the battlefield only 4 days before I met him, was in good spirits. His young family by his side, they were all proud to be Americans, and proud to be defending our country.

"The veterans in my life inspire me everyday, just as they inspire our soldiers who are following in their footsteps; securing our nation as they defend freedom worldwide. Every veteran understands that freedom comes at great cost. Some bear scars visible to our eyes, but all have borne the cost of freedoms fight. It is easy to get caught up in our everyday activities. But on this day -- with soldiers in harm’s way -- I ask you to take a moment and reflect on all that our veterans have sacrificed for this great nation."

####