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The sacrifices our military veterans and their families have made to provide our security is something we honor officially on Veterans Day, but we enjoy the protection they provide every day. Each generation faces its own struggle for freedom throughout the world. On this Veterans Day, we offer our thanks and deep appreciation for those who have served to guarantee the freedoms we enjoy.

Every veteran is a hero for their willingness to devote their life to service and it is important that we acknowledge and thank them.  Some of our heroes have waited many years to receive the recognition they deserve.  My office has helped veterans receive military service awards they earned many years ago and it was an honor for me to present W. Heath Hinson of Nashville with decorations he waited 64 years to receive. 

In Fayetteville, Heroes Homecoming is a way of “showing all Vietnam Veterans we remember and appreciate their courage, their sacrifice and everything they’ve done to defend our freedom – now and forever.”  Details of the events, which started November 4 and continue through November 13, can be found at www.heroeshomecoming.com. 

Earlier this week, I was honored to speak to a group of World War II veterans as they departed the Second District on a trip to Washington, DC to visit the National World War II Memorial and Arlington Cemetary.  There will be many events across the Second District commemorating Veterans Day, including ceremonies I will be attending this week at Fort Bragg and at Veteran’s Park in Lillington. 

There are many ways you can thank veterans this week, as well as throughout the year. The Department of Veterans Affairs offers many services and state and local resources for veterans, but there are also many private organizations doing good work on behalf of our troops and veterans.  Parade magazine put together a list of “11 Ways To Help Veterans on 11-11-11” which provides information and links to organizations like MilServ, Operation Gratitude and Homes for Our Troops.  Groups like Veterans Legacy Foundation do good work helping veterans receive service awards.

We must continue to honor the selfless bravery and noble sacrifice of our American heroes.  As part of your Veterans Day observance, please be sure to thank those who have risked their lives in service to our country.