Lives Dedicated To Service: The American Veteran and The Valued Leadership They Provide
Service doesn't end the day the American veterans hang up their uniform. For many of them they still carry the burden to serve their country and one another. To then, service is both an honor and privilege that they take seriously and devote themselves to every day of their lives.
The next generation of leaders is coming up through the ranks through JROTC programs and other organizations helping teach vital leadership skills to the next generation. While there is often a stigma associated with the younger generation, many of them are showing that same deep devotion that generations before them shared.
Each day across the country veterans come together to support not only their country, but each other. Organizations such as the Disabled American Veterans work to lobby political leaders while local organizations work to handle more practical needs that often go overlooked.
Women and men who served their country in days of war, times of peace, and everything in between American veterans strive to live up to their commitment to service and defending the truths that all men and women are created equal and deserve the same freedoms without prejudice.
Veterans know better than anyone else the price of freedom, because they've suffered the scars of war.
Men and women who gave freely or were legally compelled to serve continue to show their willingness to give freely and unselfishly of themselves in defense of American principles has given their fellow Americans, native and immigrant, the security they enjoy today.
For those who are older, the nation and the younger generation looks to you for leadership, for inspiration, and for direction. You have always been willing to provide it. Your examples are priceless, timeless, and useful today and in the future. You have had experiences that generations ahead will never experience--for better or for worse. The knowledge you gained, the experiences you cary and the examples you can provide are valuable assets to eyes that may never know or comprehend the Hell you have seen.
The cause you pursued at the call of duty is the noblest America has to offer and even today, many of you do not let that call go unanswered. You have shielded your fellow citizens, your brothers and sisters from danger. You have defended the beliefs of your country and advanced the rights of the downtrodden at home and abroad. You have been the face of hope and mercy and a force for good in the world that is often overcome with evil.
To the American veterans nothing can tarnish your honor or diminish the greatness that you have seen and accomplished. To you, our country is forever grateful.
