WASHINGTON – With a new generation of combat veterans deployed in Iraq and Afghanistan, the men and women of the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) join with millions of Americans on Nov. 11 to honor those who served in America's armed forces.
“If anyone wonders what it means to be a veteran, turn on the television news or read the newspaper headlines from Southwest Asia,” said Secretary of Veterans Affairs Anthony J. Principi. “Like generations of combat veterans before, Americans in uniform today and their families are making great personal sacrifices to serve our nation."
On Veterans Day, Principi will join President George W. Bush, military leaders and representatives of the major veterans service organizations for the traditional wreath-laying at the Tomb of the Unknowns at ArlingtonNationalCemetery. The event is scheduled for 11 a.m. -- the historic moment on Nov. 11, 1918, that marked the end of World War I.
Many VA facilities will also host local observations of Veterans Day at that hour, often serving as the focal point of commemorative events within their communities.
VA has an Internet site about Veterans Day at http://www.va.gov/vetsday. This site provides information on the history of Veterans Day and a teachers' guide to help students appreciate the contributions of America’s veterans.
“On this Veterans Day, let us remember the sacrifices of the men and women who have worn -- and continue to wear -- the uniforms of our armed forces,” said Principi. “We owe so much to those who stand on the outposts of liberty today, exercising the highest duties of citizenship, defending our liberties and making America a force for good in the world.”
