On Veterans' Day we have the opportunity to come together and recognize those who have put on the uniform and served our country.  This Veterans' Day, with thousands of our best and bravest serving in wars overseas, we need to honor those who have served and those who are currently fighting.  We may not all agree on America's role in Iraq, but our country should always come together to support our troops and honor our promise to veterans.

 

I believe the best way to support our veterans is to ensure that they receive the health care and benefits they have earned through service and sacrifice.

The observation of Veterans Day is rooted in a proud tradition that we renew each year to honor the men and women who have fought for our freedom. 

 

Veterans Day has been observed annually on November 11th for 88 years.  The significance of this date can be traced back to the formal end of the major hostilities of World War I at the 11th hour of the 11th day of the 11th month of 1918 with the German signing of the Armistice.  Armistice Day was first commemorated in the United States by President Woodrow Wilson in 1919.  Congress passed a resolution in 1926 inviting all states to observe the day, and made it a legal holiday in 1938.  It has been observed annually on November 11 since then - first as Armistice Day, later as Veterans Day.  Although the face of war has changed and new generations of veterans have given their noble service, the importance of this day and the depth of our national gratitude have remained constant.

 

In 2008, over 300,000 veterans of Operation Enduring Freedom and Operation Iraqi Freedom are expected to need treatment, according to the House Veterans Affairs Committee.  It is our duty to prepare to care for the veterans of current conflicts by beginning to address the long-term health care needs of combat veterans.

 

There are more than 1 million veterans in New York, with 45,566 living in our Congressional District.  Although it's impossible for us to adequately thank these men and women for their service to our country, we can take Veterans' Day to humbly honor their service.  So please, if you know a veteran, take five minutes and thank them for their service.