WASHINGTON – In the traditional national observance at Arlington National Cemetery and at local ceremonies in thousands of cemeteries, churches and veterans homes, Americans will honor on Veterans Day, Nov. 11, the men and women who have defended the nation’s freedoms as members of the armed forces.
“More than 48 million have answered the call to military service since our nation was founded, and 25 million are still with us,” said Secretary of Veterans Affairs Anthony J. Principi. “They are giants. During World War II, they saved the world. In other conflicts and during times of peace, they have set the standard for selfless service, dedication to country and valor."
Principi said the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) is honoring the nation's commitment to veterans by providing world-class health care, by improving dramatically the processing of claims and by preserving the nation's 120 national cemeteries as shrines to the veterans buried there.
The VA secretary is scheduled to join with the leaders of the major veterans service organizations for the traditional laying of a wreath at the Tomb of the Unknowns at Arlington National Cemetery. The wreath-laying is scheduled for 11 a.m. on Nov. 11 – the historic "11th hour of the 11th day of the 11th month" that marked the end of World War I.
“We must never forget what our veterans have done for us,” said Principi. “It is our responsibility to honor our fallen heroes, serve the veterans of today and prepare for the needs of tomorrow's veterans.”
