Brave Defenders of Freedom Take Center Stage
on Veterans Day
By Congressman Ander Crenshaw
As American servicemen and women fight to protect our freedom at home and around the globe, we take time on November 11 to remember their predecessors - our veterans. In Jacksonville, across Florida, and around the nation, we formally recognize these brave defenders of liberty on Veterans Day and offer our thanks for standing in harm’s way in the name of freedom.
We also remain mindful of those who did not return home from battle. Having given the ultimate sacrifice for our nation and its ideals, they have earned our lasting admiration and appreciation. Here on the First Coast, we mourn the loss of all Florida soldiers who died in battle and keep their friends and families in our thoughts. We will never forget their selflessness and courage.
The 2012 calendar has offered many meaningful opportunities to pay tribute and make sure the dedication of our soldiers and veterans is known far and wide. At Naval Air Station Jacksonville, I joined in that effort by highlighting the important role served by individual augmentees and formally recognized nearly 96 Operation Desert Shield and Desert Storm veterans at my annual Veterans Special Recognition Ceremony. At the University of North Florida’s Veterans Day Tribute, I highlighted the sacrifices of our veterans and will do so again on Sunday (11/11) at Veterans Memorial Park at Atlantic Beach.
The city’s “Week of Valor” program, including the Military Appreciation Luncheon, the Navy-Marine Corps Classic basketball game aboard the USS Bataan at Naval Station Mayport, a Veterans Summit, and Veterans Jobs Fair allowed many more in the First Coast community to honor and help out these patriots who have given so much. Our military tradition was on full display with the Jaguars - Colts Military Appreciation Game, and Jacksonville’s annual Veterans Day Parade caps the celebration on November 12.
On Capitol Hill, I remain committed to ensuring that those who have served our country have access to quality health care, receive the full benefits that they have earned, and have all their needs fully represented in Congress. The members of Florida’s veterans’ community play a valuable role in backing their fellow soldiers, and I thank them for the attention and feedback they provide on critical issues. Whether the focus is on health benefits, survivor benefits, or concurrent receipt, the counsel of our veterans is always helpful in gaining a full understanding of their concerns.
Those who have served in the United States Armed Forces, and those who will enter service, should know that this country honors their sacrifices on Veterans Day and all year. Democracy is the fruit of their brave action, and we must respect and always remember their contributions to our great country after they leave service. Veterans on the First Coast, across the state and nation can be assured that I will always advocate their needs on Capitol Hill.
Editor’s note: Congressman Crenshaw’s office remains a constant resource for veterans at the following office locations or by sending a message through the official e-mail address, which can be accessed at www.crenshaw.house.gov.
• Washington, DC Office, 440 Cannon House Office Building, Washington, DC 20515. Telephone: 202-225-2501
• Jacksonville, Florida Office, 1061 Riverside Avenue, Suite 109, Jacksonville, FL 32204. Telephone: 904-598-0481.
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