Roger Reinert Blog: Thanks for everyone who serves our country, including those today in the Middle East

November 5, 2009 by Howie · Leave a Comment

As Veterans Day approaches, it is important to show our gratitude to those who have served our country courageously in uniform — and those serving in armed conflict today in the Middle East, and around the world.

For those of us involved in the armed forces, what we’re seeing is that we as a society are used to thinking of veterans in terms of Greatest Generation and Vietnam service members. But our current obligations overseas are largely being filled by people in their 30s and 40s, with families and careers. The issues they are facing upon returning home are much different than those of a teenager or someone in their early 20s.

Today more than 2,200 Minnesotans are serving abroad in Iraq and Afghanistan. Their sacrifices, and the service of countless others that came before them from the Civil War, to WWII, to Desert Storm, have made our state, our nation, and our world a safer, more just place to live.

We honor those serving our nation this Veterans Day — at home and abroad — for the good work they are doing to secure freedom, justice, and opportunity for us and for others. We remember the service of those brave veterans who defended our nation in its most critical hours. And, we give our sincerest gratitude to those who sacrificed their lives so that we might inherit the same uncommon liberties our forefathers fought and died to secure.

Finally, we thank the military families who have given their husbands, wives, mothers, and fathers to the service of our nation and anxiously await their safe return. Our prayers and our gratitude are with you today and always. Your sacrifices and service to this country are deeply appreciated by all Minnesotans.

More than ever, our veterans need the support of our entire community — in word, deed, and action. One great example of a small way to say thank you is what Applebee’s is doing this Veterans Day. They will be providing a free meal next Wednesday to every actively serving, or retired member of the armed forces.

Please, do what you can to say thanks this Veterans Day. And express your gratitude every day for those who serve, or have served in uniform.

Roger Reinert is a Minnesota State Representative, representing District 7B