Armed Forces Day Thoughts

Throughout our nation's history, many women and men of courage have willingly defended our nation's liberties at freedom's front in any land, sky, or ocean. Sixty years ago, President Harry S. Truman deemed that a day be set aside to honor this tradition by paying homage to those who have served this nation in uniform. Today is Armed Forces Day and all across the nation, thirteen stripes and fifty stars soar high in the sky at many of our homes because the flag represents our banner of freedom and it is our way to show respect to those who have served and continue to serve in the military.

Armed Forces Day was designated to celebrate all the services (Army, Marine Corps, Navy, Coast Guard, and Air Force) standing watch around the globe. It is because of the selfless service, perpetual vigilance, and constant readiness for action from our soldiers that this day inspires many Americans to pause and pay tribute to the men and women in uniform. Our military has played a major role in the development of our country and has brought peace to many other countries because of their unbending honor, their dedication to duty and their love of country.

This new century ahead holds new and great challenges for our county. The fight for freedom around the world is an ongoing battle. Yes, those missions include supporting the Iraqi and Afghanistan people and the Coalition Air Force Transition Team in their battle with insurgents, so that a free and stable government can take hold and survive. Remember, this fight is not just the conflict in Iraq and Afghanistan, it is also a fight to save lives through our humanitarian relief operations, a fight to discourage and deter our adversaries, and it is a fight to provide for the strategic defense of our country now and in the future.

As we set aside this day, please show your support of our Armed Forces as they continue to carry out their assigned missions. This evening in particular, my thoughts and prayers are with the families and friends of the soldiers who have died serving their country honorably. Their bravery and sacrifice deserve our respect and gratitude. Let us also not forget the families of our service members either. They should also be recognized for their contributions, loving support, and sacrifices they endure that ensure that our service members are ready to answer when our Nation calls.