Veterans Day serves as an enduring reminder of those who have shouldered the responsibility of defending our freedoms. In the words of Ronald Reagan, “Freedom is never more than one generation away from extinction.” This day calls on Americans to not only reflect on the sacrifices of our veterans in times of conflict but to honor their continued contributions at home—as police officers, civic leaders, and steadfast members of our communities. The presence of these veterans in our daily lives is a testament to the enduring spirit of service that defines the American legacy.
The origins of Veterans Day date back to November 11, 1918, marking the armistice that ended World War I. Originally known as Armistice Day, the day was later expanded by Congress in 1954 to honor all veterans. As George Washington once wrote, “The willingness with which our young people are likely to serve…shall be directly proportional to how they perceive the veterans of earlier wars were treated and appreciated.” This charge remains as true today as it was in Washington’s time, underscoring the importance of recognizing veterans with a commitment that goes beyond ceremonies and tributes.
In communities like New Canaan, veterans continue to exemplify the ideals of service, courage, and integrity. Their contributions enrich and strengthen our community, bringing stability and a quiet resolve that benefit us all.
John F. Kennedy once reminded us, “As we express our gratitude, we must never forget that the highest appreciation is not to utter words, but to live by them.” Veterans Day should prompt us not only to remember but to act. Meaningful support for veterans means ensuring they have access to health care, employment, and a place within our local institutions. This goes beyond mere sentiment—it is an obligation to care for those who have cared for us, who have placed their lives in jeopardy for the freedoms we often take for granted.
For the veterans in New Canaan and across the nation, our gratitude is immense and our debt significant. Veterans serve as beacons within our communities, modeling a life of purpose and service. They bring with them a perspective that speaks to sacrifice, to a sense of duty that transcends individual interest. Veterans embody resilience, and our communities are enriched by their contributions, woven with a quiet strength that remains long after active duty has ended.
As Ronald Reagan observed, “Some people live an entire lifetime and wonder if they have ever made a difference in the world. But the Marines don’t have that problem, and neither do any of our veterans.” The impact of our veterans is tangible, embedded in the fabric of our society. Veterans Day provides us with an opportunity to acknowledge this, to express our collective gratitude, and to renew our promise to stand with them as they have stood for us.
This year’s theme, “A Legacy of Loyalty and Service,” captures the enduring contribution of America’s veterans. Designed by retired Army veteran Myisha Godette, it calls upon Americans to honor veterans in ways that uphold the freedoms they sacrificed to protect. This is not only an invitation but a charge: to uphold their legacy with actions that reflect the values they have preserved for us.
As we remember our veterans this November 11, let us also remember George H.W. Bush’s words: “We know what works: Freedom works. We know what’s right: Freedom is right.” Our veterans are the bearers of this wisdom, and their lives are deeply intertwined with America’s founding ideals. Honoring them is not simply about a ceremony; it is about recognizing the principles they defended, acknowledging their sacrifices as essential to our own freedom, and pledging our continued support.
To the veterans of New Canaan and beyond, we extend our profound respect and deepest gratitude. On this Veterans Day, we recognize your sacrifices, honor the lives you have enriched, and acknowledge the debt we owe to all who have kept our nation secure. Your legacy of service and loyalty is a powerful inheritance—a call to uphold the freedoms you defended with unwavering courage and resolve.
