We applaud President Obama for listening and responding to the voices of countless Americans who share our desire to protect and preserve places of great natural, cultural, and historical wonder.

This is a big win for the people of New Mexico and our nation. And it isn't the only win this week for Veterans.

Protecting our American heritage is an act of patriotism. Our heritage helps us appreciate our country's special place in history. The Republicans who passed the Antiquities Act and the presidents who used the law understood that.

Just 48 hours before Earth Day, President Obama designated Fort Ord, California, a national monument. This did not come as a surprise to the citizens of California's central coast, and those who supported preserving the former military base's rich history and lush nature.

Last November, Obama used the Antiquities Act to protect Virginia's Fort Monroe, an important and symbolic Civil War site. It was an admirable choice, but so far it has been his only choice. If I were president for a day, I'd start with these three.

President Obama's designation of Fort Monroe as a National Monument is aligned with the values and spirit of the American people, and will hopefully be a strong indicator of things to come.

Throwing open the gates to development and improper use of these national treasures is no less egregious than using the Declaration of Independence for a placemat.

In the midst of one of the most anti-conservation Congresses in the recent memory, a collection of Wilderness designation bills have been introduced by conservation leaders in the U.S. Senate and House of Representatives.