Today, Americans across the country will observe Veterans Day and honor those who have served our nation in uniform.  I am immensely grateful to all who have served or are currently serving in our Armed Forces and the military families who support them.

This Veterans Day, we pause to express our appreciation for the sacrifices of these brave men and women. We do this by caring for our servicemembers when they are abroad and when they come home. To that end, we must remain committed to providing our veterans with quality health care and increasing college access for those that have returned from Iraq and Afghanistan. Nothing should stand in the way of our veterans having confidence in and access to the care and benefits they have earned and deserve. 

After fighting for our nation overseas, no veteran should have to fight for a job at home. We have taken steps to help our men and women in uniform find good-paying jobs – ranging from providing tax credits for businesses that hire veterans to creating a Veterans Job Corp that helps veterans find pathways to work protecting and rebuilding America. 2.4 million small businesses (nearly 1 in 10) in the U.S. are veteran-owned. The SBA’s Boots to Business: from Service to Startup initiative, launched in April 2012, provides entrepreneurship training for transitioning servicemembers.

Veterans Day is an important time of commemoration. However, our commitment and support must continue year-round by volunteering our time and thanking them for the sacrifices they have made to ensure our freedom. Putting your talents to work at a local Veterans Affairs Medical Center will go a long way in showing that appreciation. The VA Voluntary Service Office can provide you information on how to volunteer locally. Please visit their website for more information on how you can contribute.

Again, to all our troops, reservists, veterans, and families, thank you. You have our full gratitude. If you or your family have any questions about veterans’ issues, please contact my office.