WASHINGTON, DC – House Majority Leader Steny H. Hoyer (MD) released the following statement in recognition of Veterans Day, observed tomorrow:
 
“Veterans Day is a time to reaffirm our support for every American service member, both the 25 million living veterans and those we have lost, who fought to protect our freedoms. Their bravery and sacrifice for our nation deserves our recognition, our respect, and our deep gratitude.
 
“At a time of ongoing global threats to our nation’s security, it is particularly important to honor the sacrifice of all those currently combating terrorism around the world and those who have made the ultimate sacrifice in that effort. We all mourn the loss of the 4,780 U.S. troops who have died in Operations Iraqi Freedom and Enduring Freedom.
 
“We must continue to honor their memory and the service of veterans past, present, and future by ensuring that they receive the care and benefits they have earned. The 110th Congress has done that by passing the largest increase in veterans’ health care and benefits funding in the history of the VA, and restoring full, four-year college tuition for veterans with a new GI Bill of Rights for the 21st Century.  This Congress has also passed legislation to reduce the occurrence of suicide among veterans and address the problems brought to light by the Walter Reed Army Medical Center scandal.
 
“The sacrifice and service of America’s veterans is considerable, and we are eternally grateful for the patriotism of our troops. On this Veterans Day, I salute America’s bravest, and ask all to join me in pledging to honor their courage year round.”