Romans 13:7 instructs Christians to “give respect where respect is due and honor where honor is due.” It’s hard to imagine persons deserving more honor and respect from American citizens than our veterans. From the very start of our nation, we have been indebted to people who have stepped up to serve at our nation’s call.
Despite the busy season, November 11 is an important date on the calendar (the second Tuesday of November each year) when we should personally take time to salute our country's greatest patriots who have served in the military. Veterans Day celebrates and honors the courage, sacrifice, and dedication shown by those who have served in active duty in the U.S. Armed Forces, both living and deceased, in wartime or peacetime.
Key sentiments include thanking veterans directly, reflecting on the importance of their service, and acknowledging the debt of gratitude owed to them for their selfless commitment. Veterans have selflessly served their country, often putting themselves in harm's way to defend the freedoms we all enjoy.
Sometimes we mistake our dedicated days of honor and think Memorial Day and Veterans Day are the same. But Memorial Day is a time to remember those who gave their lives for our country, particularly in battle or from wounds they suffered in battle. Veterans Day honors those who have served the country in war or peace – dead or alive – although it’s largely intended to thank living veterans for their sacrifices.
My father was a loyal soldier, serving in WW 2. He was wounded in 11 places in Normandy but survived to have a long and fruitful life. Though he is in heaven now I gratefully honor him and all other Veterans who willingly served throughout our nation’s storied history. My uncle John Todd, whom I will not meet until heaven, died of injuries received in WW 2. I salute and honor him and his service today, as well as the many who join him.
I am also thankful for the many men and women serving in our military today. Anytime I see someone in uniform, I try to thank them. This Veterans Day, go out of your way to thank a Vet. Send a text or a card. Take them to coffee. Call to say thanks. If you see someone in a restaurant, store, or on the street identified by a hat or coat, or any way that says they are a Veteran, stop and have a grateful conversation. Many people did that for Dad, and he never got over it.
Thanks, Veterans. We owe a debt we cannot pay.