Each year, Veterans Day provides an opportunity for Americans to express gratitude to those who have served in the military. U.S. Senator Jon Husted (R-Ohio) highlighted this message in a recent op-ed.
“Each year, Veterans Day serves as a reminder for Americans to thank veterans for their service. We owe it to those who served to recognize their sacrifice all year long,” Husted wrote.
Husted noted that national pride has reached low levels, citing data that only 58% of Americans report being “very” or “extremely proud” to be American, while 21% say they are “only a little” or “not proud at all.” He added, “We only sacrifice for the things we love. And the sad reality is a record-low percentage of Americans, 58% to be exact, say they are ‘very’ or ‘extremely proud’ to be an American. A record-high percentage of Americans, 21%, are ‘only a little’ or ‘not proud at all’ of their country. As we approach the 250th birthday of our great nation, I hope my fellow Americans will join me in seeking a new birth of patriotism.”
He emphasized that veterans come from varied backgrounds but share a commitment to service: “Everyone in the country can learn from America’s heroes about what it means to answer the call of duty. Veterans come from all walks of life, political beliefs and backgrounds, yet they are united in their service. There is no better example of what it means to unite around the cause of freedom than veterans and servicemembers.”
Serving Ohio’s veteran population remains important for Husted: “Serving nearly 700,000 veterans who call Ohio home in the U.S. Senate is an honor I do not take lightly. Throughout my time in public service, serving Ohio’s veterans includes recognizing their service and sharing their stories.”
He concluded with an invitation for others to listen and learn from veterans: “I hope all Ohioans will join me this Veterans Day, not just in thanking those who have served, but in hearing their stories and learning from their experiences. And when you do, I hope you will feel a renewed sense of American pride and patriotism.”
The full op-ed can be accessed online.
