Happy Veterans Day

Today, we join in honoring America's veterans for the many sacrifices they have made for our country throughout our history and throughout the world. Whether they served at home or abroad, in times of peace or in times of war, our courageous men and women in uniform have defended the American people and our Constitution. We also thank the families of our veterans and active-duty service members; they too must make sacrifices for our nation. Our safety has always depended on their strength.

Our commitment to America's veterans and their families must continue long after they take off the uniform and return to civilian life.

For those who bear the physical and mental scars of war we pay a special tribute, and we pledge to continue caring for them in recognition of all they have given to secure our freedom.  Let us never forget the debt we owe to all who have served – on this day and every day.

There is much we can learn from our nation's veterans.  Those who have served understand the meaning of duty and honor, selflessness and humility.  They know what it means to put country first and to see not the differences that separate us but the commonalities that bind us as Americans.  In our deeply divided country, we hope we can use this opportunity to draw inspiration from our veterans and recognize that we are one nation, united by common dreams and a common flag.