Why veterans are important to our nation's history and future

Posted on Sep 9, 2022

Veterans are the backbone of this country. Without them, there would be no United States of America. No Life, Liberty, and the Pursuit of happiness. And no way to ensure that our country will continue to be the “Land of Opportunity” it has been known to be.

Veterans have protected our rights as Americans and made the dreams of our Forefathers possible. War, although horrid, is inevitable within humanity and our future veterans will be there to protect our blessed American land and values.

Throughout history our veterans have put their lives on hold and at risk to protect our country. When a war starts, many are afraid.

Our veterans were afraid as well, but they answered the call of duty and rose up to fight for our nation. Many had to endure hunger, loss, pain, and desperation but still they fought with a purpose, willing to give the ultimate sacrifice. Though some are now old and frail, suffering from PTSD, or just trying to fit back into society we acknowledge their service and display our gratitude as much as possible.

Why should we? Because they are our history, our real life heroes and our models for the nation. Until the second World War, the United States was not a prominent global figure. After the war, Americans started to view its military as a vanguard against foreign threats. They also started to view America's military forces as a leader in the western world against Communism. As a result, a once very neutral nation, with an army smaller than Romania's, started to expand its military forces to the mammoth it is today.

Consequently, our veterans have shaped our policy on foreign affairs, and have made us advocates for democracy and justice throughout the world. Not only do our veterans protect our rights and freedoms, but they also provide services and aid to those in need. In many instances, the U.S is the first on the scene providing medical aid, food, and water at a level no other country can come close to during disasters both home and abroad.

Today the military is more heavily engaged in humanitarian operations than ever before. In the past five years, military aircraft have air-dropped food into Ethiopia, helicoptered aid into remote villages in Sudan, rescued flood victims in Bangladesh, and delivered medical teams to hundreds of major and minor disasters. The caring and selfless spirit of our past veterans continues to live on in the hearts of those currently enlisted.

Our future veterans are the kids who sit next to us in English class, play varsity football, our best friends. The few who decide to enlist hold an enormous responsibility. They will protect our American values and we as citizens will be eternally grateful. Our future veterans are ready to uphold the tradition and honor of what it means to be an American Soldier. They are ready to protect the wills of our forefathers, and they are ready to promote peace and prosperity throughout the world.

So thank you veterans, past, present and future for your service. You will never be forgotten and we as citizens will forever be indebted to you. Just as you have shaped our history you will shape our future. Continue to be the few, the strong, and the brave.

Original article: Why veterans are important to our nation's history and future