"The nation which forgets its defenders will itself be forgotten." - Calvin Coolidge

From those first farmers and shopkeepers who left home and hearth to eventually defeat the most powerful army in their world to the highly trained professionals currently fighting against an enemy that is nearly impossible to see in Iraq and Afghanistan, our defenders have forged and protected a nation like no other.

Continued...

What began as an experiment in self-government has evolved into a beacon of freedom for all nations that could not have succeeded without our veterans.

We remember them today, not because the calendar tells us to, but because we know our daily lives have been made possible by their service. Especially in these times, as a nation at war, we recognize the skill, courage and sacrifices of these men and women and the results of their efforts. We thank them all.