Veterans Day 2019

Randy Reeves

Under Secretary for Memorial Affairs Randy Reeves greets a Veteran at the dedication ceremony for the Minnesota State Veterans Cemetery - Duluth on Sept. 21, 2019

Their Service Didn't End When They Took Off the Uniform

 

As we approach Veterans Day, I hope each of you will take the time to reflect on the service our Veterans continue to provide to our Nation.

You all know them. Men and women who served in our armed forces, then returned to civilian life while maintaining the same ethic of patriotism and selfless service. They continue to serve in positions of public trust, in our communities and civic organizations, and in charitable efforts aimed at improving everyone's lives. They raise families and teach their children to value service to others over service to self. Without fanfare or desire for recognition, they inspire us to be better citizens. I submit that most of our Veterans make their biggest contributions to our society after leaving military service. They build upon the foundation of uniformed service.

We are immensely grateful to our Veterans not just on Veterans Day, but every day, for the example they continue to set for us. At the National Cemetery Administration, we're proud to serve our Veterans and their families and provide them with a final resting place that is befitting the service they have given our Nation. Seventy-seven percent of our team members are Veterans, and they are joined by a dedicated cadre of civil servants who share the same devotion to those who have been entrusted to our care.

Please join me in thanking these heroes - our Veterans who continue to serve us. I am

Sincerely,