Who does not remember President Kennedy asking, "Ask not what your country can do for you, but what you can do for your country"? Our brave and selfless men and women in uniform who serve our country embody this great and noble thought with courage and strength that deserve our highest gratitude -- not just on Veterans Day but each and every day of our lives.
We can never thank this elite group of Americans enough for their service to our great nation and to each and every American who enjoys the freedoms and liberties which define us as a people. It has been said that freedom is never free; how can we not be grateful and thankful to the men and women who pay the price of spending precious time away from their families, who endure the endless dangers of warfare?
It is also important to remember that for most of us these are men and women who we have never met or will ever know, and yet they fight for us to give us the rights and privileges that not everyone around the world can claim they have in their lives. And the irony of it all is that if these brave souls return alive it isn't as if they are asking anyone for anything in return! Their love for this country and fellow Americans transcends wanting such accolades; how can we not be eternally grateful to such selfless beings?
Each and every man and woman who serves is an inspiration for dedication and bravery which commands our unwavering respect, gratitude and complete appreciation. Let us also remember the proud patriots who did not return home. Adlai E. Stevenson said, "Patriotism is not short, frenzied outbursts of emotion, but the tranquil and steady dedication of a lifetime." I agree that it is the dedication of a lifetime that defines true patriotism.
These brave souls have given not only their time, effort, and commitment, and -- most importantly -- their very lives for the protection and preservation of the ideals and values of this great country.
When trying to put into words our gratitude for all that these brave souls encounter risk and face, we come up short, for sure. Nevertheless, it is imperative that we acknowledge such service in protecting and defending our freedoms and our democratic values which define our way of life. America would not be considered the greatest country in the world if we did not have these great people defending it.
Every veteran makes the ultimate commitment to the apex of patriotism and courage.
Thank you, each and every one of you, for your years of service. The sacrifices you have made for our country, on and off the battlefield, all of which are unfathomable. America is eternally blessed for the presence of our veterans, who believe liberty is always worth fighting for. Men and women who believe in duty, honor and country will always be an inspiration. Your service makes the world a better place, keeps our nation a strong beacon of hope in freedom and democracy.
Thanks to all of you, who put on the uniform expecting nothing in return? The selfless act of serving our country deserves the highest level of respect and gratitude we have to offer. What is there to say other than that I am truly grateful, from the bottom of my heart! It is men and women like you that make all of us proud to be Americans.