As a proud Vietnam veteran who is preparing for Veterans Day, I find it tragic that so many of my fellow Americans view Nov. 11 as just another day off work.
With wars on two fronts, it’s time for all Americans to remember the true meaning of Veterans Day. I call on my fellow citizens to take action to help our troops and veterans during the upcoming holiday season. Send a care package overseas. Write a letter of support to a lonely service member. Remind young people what Veterans Day is about. Donate to the Veterans of Foreign Wars, USO, or local military and family support programs that help our defenders, deployed and at home.
Fort Lewis and McChord Air Force Base stand as witness to losses from both fronts within our own community. When you read the paper, we see firsthand the true sacrifices. Our service men and women face danger with each day of deployment and even at home in training exercises. They stand up to serve; the least we can do to is respect their sacrifices.
Fly your American flag and say a heart-felt thanks to a veteran Nov. 11 and each time you pass a soldier in uniform – wherever that might be.
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