Reflecting on the significance of military service and the importance of veterans
Let me begin by wishing all my brothers and sisters in arms who served in the Marine Corps a happy birthday! Nov. 10 marks the Corps’ 249th year of existence, and I know it’s an honor for each and every one of you to celebrate this birthday, just as it is to be called a U.S. veteran.
This month also marks the annual observation of Veterans Day on Nov. 11. However, many individuals get the meaning behind Veterans Day and Memorial Day confused.
Memorial Day is a day for remembering and honoring the men and women who died in the service of our country, particularly those who died in conflict.
While those who died are also remembered on Veterans Day, it is the day to recognize all those who served honorably in the military, whether in war or peace. Veterans Day is the day to thank and celebrate all of our servicemen and servicewomen.
For veterans, as you sit back and reflect on your time served for this country and consider what it means for you to be called a veteran, I hope you remember those who served alongside you and the memories made during that time. It’s important to acknowledge that you were part of the thousands of great men and women who vowed to protect this country since its fight for freedom in 1775.
Veterans hold an important role in keeping this great nation moving forward, and that service affords us to be part of things bigger than ourselves, such as being a Paralyzed Veterans of America (PVA) member. There are other qualifications that go along with this membership that some might say “suck,” but holding a PVA membership most definitely has its advantages.
No one wants to be an individual who survived a catastrophic injury or disease, let alone a veteran with one, but thanks to our PVA forefathers who had the foresight, tenacity and resilience to fight for veterans’ rights, we now have guidance and support in navigating this way of life. Past veterans paved the way for us and future veterans to live fulfilling lives while also having disabilities.
As a veteran and PVA member, when I think of November, the words that come to mind are honor and gratitude. I am honored to have served this great country and grateful it has assisted me after my injury.
As we come to the end of this month, when we’re sitting around the table waiting to eat Thanksgiving dinner, I know for certain when I’m asked what I am thankful for, I can proudly say being a member of this organization.
I know I owe so much to the work of PVA and our forefathers, and I continue to work diligently for this important mission honorably started by my predecessors
in 1946.
