Today we recognize the countless soldiers, sailors, marines, and airmen who have answered the call of duty to defend our nation. America has been blessed to have these brave men and women make sacrifices to serve in the armed forces. Whether they served during war or peacetime, on active duty or in the Reserves, on the home front or abroad, these patriots all deserve our respect and gratitude.

The pride and perseverance of our men and women in uniform is reflected in every generation of veterans, from the Revolutionary War to the current service members engaged in fighting in the Global War against Islamic Jihadists. Today I ask you to not only express respect and gratitude to veterans and those currently serving, but also their families.

Please give thanks for their commitment and their sacrifices, and for the protection of freedom that we all enjoy. Above all, we must give thanks that our nation has brave patriots that are willing to answer the call to duty.