Armed Forces Day 2024: Remembering Sacrifice, Demanding Action

On Saturday, May 18, 2024, the United States celebrates Armed Forces Day — a time to honor the men and women who have served in the military. This day is an important reminder of the bravery, sacrifice, and dedication exhibited by our service members, both past and present.

As we commemorate this special day, let us reflect on the wisdom of our first President, George Washington, who once said, “The willingness with which our young people are likely to serve in any war, no matter how justified, shall be directly proportional to how they perceive the Veterans of earlier wars were treated and appreciated by their nation.”

Washington’s words are a powerful reminder of the debt we owe to our veterans. Their willingness to serve, often at great personal cost, is influenced by how they see their predecessors treated. Unfortunately, despite the gratitude expressed on days like today, our nation falls short in providing the continuous support our veterans need and deserve.

To all who have proudly served or are currently serving our country: Thank you. Your sacrifices, as well as the sacrifices of your families, make it possible for the rest of us to enjoy freedoms that are too often taken for granted. However, expressing gratitude on special occasions is not enough. We, as a nation, must do better.

Recognizing our servicemen and women should not be limited to Armed Forces Day, Veterans Day, Memorial Day, or other remembrance dates. It must be a daily commitment. Our actions must reflect our words, showing our respect and appreciation through tangible support and services.

The reality is stark: if even one veteran is homeless, unemployed, or struggling, we are failing them. The statistics on veteran homelessness, unemployment, and suicide are alarming and unacceptable. Every veteran deserves a secure home, a meaningful job, and robust mental health support. Our current efforts fall short, and we must do more.

Our nation must commit to providing comprehensive support for veterans and their families, ensuring they have access to healthcare, housing, education, and employment opportunities. We must invest in mental health services, recognizing the unique challenges faced by those who have served in combat.

Furthermore, we must foster a culture of respect and appreciation, not just through words, but through actions that demonstrate our commitment to their well-being. Community programs, government initiatives, and private sector partnerships can all play a role in creating a safety net for veterans.

On this Armed Forces Day, let us honor our service members by pledging to do better. Let us remember George Washington’s words and strive to treat our veterans with the respect and appreciation they have earned. Their willingness to serve in future conflicts will depend on how we care for those who served in the past. Actions speak louder than words, and it is time for us to act.

Thank you to all our veterans and active service members. Your courage and dedication inspire us all. It is our duty to ensure that your sacrifices are met with the gratitude, respect, and support you deserve, today and every day.

Make today a great day. Make it happen. Make it count!