Essay On American Veterans

Throughout our nation’s history, it is clear to see that veterans have played a critical role in who we are today. Understandably, these brave soldiers will be a formidable force in who we are to become tomorrow. To support this belief, Jeff Miller, a United States Congressman, has said, “The willingness of American veterans to sacrifice for our country has earned them our lasting gratitude” (mobile.brainyquote.com).
The first - hand accounts of historical events that our veterans allow us, help prevent us from repeating the same mistakes and can enable us to become better equipped for future challenges. Our veterans are inspirational. Realizing the impact that they have made throughout America’s history will hopefully instill in future generations, the desire to take part in the legacy that has been started. The attributes that our veterans exhibit are ones that we should strive to exhibit in our own lives. Veterans give us hope for a better tomorrow as they encourage us to do better, to be better, and to give more unselfishly. As citizens, we can show more respect to our veterans by being respectful in what may
seem like “little things”, such as: presenting the flag during the day and taking it down at night or making sure that a light is illuminating the flag if you keep it out at night; by removing our hats and standing proudly at functions where our National Anthem is played; and by standing in quiet, respectful, attention when the flag is presented during ceremonies and special events.
Veterans are important to our history because they believed in and fought to preserve the words that are printed in our Declaration of Independence.
These selfless acts of sacrifice enabled America to earn our independence and have allowed us the freedoms that our inalienable rights allow: life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness. Today, we are free to pursue an education, religion, careers, housing, we have freedom of speech, and the right to bear arms. These are just a few of the freedoms that we have because of our veterans - freedoms that people in other countries are denied. As Judd Greg, former governor of New Hampshire, pointed out during a ceremony at Graceland Cemetery in December of 2013, “The veterans of our military services have put their lives on the line to protect the freedoms that we enjoy” (journalexpress.net
). Veterans are important because they fought and died in our name. United States Diplomat, Joseph Wilson, understands the seriousness of war and the importance of remembering and honoring our veterans. He believes that “There is no more solemn decision that a society can make than sending its’ soldiers off to die and to kill for their country.” Therefore, remembering those who have served our country is one small way that we can show our gratitude. According to Steve Buyer, another United States Representative, “There are 25 million veterans living among us today. These men and women selflessly set aside their civilian lives to put on their uniform to serve our country.” So, the next time you meet an American veteran, shake his or her hand and say “Thank you for serving our country.” Respect and care for our American flag. It is so much more than a piece of fabric stapled to a stick. Our flag represents the millions of Americans who fought and died for the life that we enjoy today.
In conclusion, I agree with the words of United States Representative, Doc Hastings, “We owe our World War II veterans - and all our veterans -a debt we can never fully repay.” However, today is a good day to begin to try. After all, our veterans have played a critical role in who we are today. Understandably, these brave soldiers will be a formidable force in who we are to become, tomorrow.