Our family, like many in this country, has a long list of family members who have served and sacrificed to defend and protect our freedom. Regardless of our political views, disagreements about war and politics, on Veteran’s Day we all come together to celebrate and honor our family members and all who have served.

To all of those who have served and continue to, thank you. A special thank you to my Uncles, Bob, Terry, and Kevin who filled my childhood with heroes. There are many opportunities to show your appreciation for the Veterans in your area. You can attend community celebrations, to be sure, but more importantly, you can teach your children to respect the service these men and women provide and find ways to volunteer at local VA facilities to spend time with Vets in your area.

From the United States Department of Veterans:

The Veterans Day National Ceremony is held each year on November 11th at Arlington National Cemetery.

The ceremony commences precisely at 11:00 a.m. with a wreath laying at the Tomb of the Unknowns and continues inside the Memorial Amphitheater with a parade of colors by veterans’ organizations and remarks from dignitaries. The ceremony is intended to honor and thank all who served in the United States Armed Forces.

The Veterans Day National Committee also selects a number of regional sites for Veterans Day observances throughout the country. From stirring parades and ceremonies to military exhibits and tributes to distinguished veterans, these events serve as models for other communities to follow in planning their own observances.