Honoring Those Who Have Served

There is a common bond between the men and women who have shared the military experience: a shared sense of duty and a common belief in a cause higher than self. Military service was, for many, the most important event of their lives.

Among veterans, there exists a shared intensity of dedication to the ideas of freedom and democracy. There is a shared sense of pride and an understanding and respect for each other because each realizes that they have contributed to the greater good. Our veterans understand the true essence of America .

Throughout our history and among our veterans there is but one truth and one absolute: America will stand. Freedom and liberty is the birthright of every American. Maintaining the strength of the American ideal requires courage and constant vigilance against those who envy what we often take for granted: without the sacrifice of our veterans, tyrants and evil would prevail. 

All of us need to honor the memory of those who paid so dearly with their lives. We need to think of the pain and loss felt by those left behind. Millions of Americans died at the crest of their lives because they believed in the absolute of America ’s promise.  

Right now, there are thousands of men and women in our military, once again being placed in harm’s way. Make no mistake about it, they have been tasked with a difficult and dangerous mission to seek out and destroy terrorists and their networks and those who support them. We understand there will be difficult days ahead for our nation. However, we are well prepared for it because our military stands ready to do whatever it may take to defeat the attackers and murderers of innocent civilians.  

In a videotaped message to the Veterans of Foreign Wars of the United States during its Patriotic Rally in Jersey Park , President George Bush praised the "brave men and women in uniform" who are bringing justice to terrorists in Afghanistan and those who support it. "The American military has always been ready to protect our freedoms," the president said, offering assurance that the military will get whatever it needs to win the war on terrorism to ensure freedom for all Americans.

The president also reminded the audience that Americans are peaceful people, but fierce when stirred into action. "We will never relent on this war. Our strategy is sound. Our cause is just, and our goal is certain: absolute victory over terrorism.   

It’s important that we take time to thank the men and women who are currently serving in the military forces. We need to do everything we can to make sure the men and women who serve in today’s' and tomorrows' military receive what they need to accomplish their mission of safeguarding America ’s interests.

As we rally and unite in our cause to combat terrorism, as we raise funds for victims of the attack on America , and volunteer to assist our communities, we should prepare to do even more than rhetoric demands. Our country has faced countless challenges and faces many more, but as in the past, let us forge ahead with intensified effort and commitment to our nation and to our veterans. 

James N. Goldsmith
Commander-in-Chief
Veterans of Foreign Wars

Please visit the
Veterans of Foreign Wars - California Department
www.vfw