This past Friday, our Nation celebrated Veterans Day. Appropriately, we also marked the 241st birthday of the United States Marine Corps the day before. During both occasions, our country reflected upon the sacrifices and commitment of the millions of service members that fought to defend our freedom.
The character of our country is defined by how we treat our Veterans after their service. Our Nation owes them a debt of gratitude that starts with making sure they have the proper support and care.
The best way to honor all who have proudly worn America’s uniform is to make sure we do everything humanly possible to protect the freedoms and liberties they fought so hard to defend. We must also always keep our promise to take care of our Troops, Veterans and military families, and look for ways to say and show our thanks, including by helping them to receive the recognition and quality health care and benefits they were promised, earned and deserve.
This Veterans Day, my staff and I participated in more than a dozen different events across Maine. I was honored to join hundreds of Veterans and volunteers in Brewer for the annual pancake breakfast. I also proudly marched alongside several service members in the parade following the “For Our Vets Purple Heart Run” from Brewer to downtown Bangor.
Honoring the service and sacrifice of our Nation’s military members and their families is one the greatest and proudest privileges for a Member of Congress. One of my top priorities is to continue to support the brave men and women in uniform during active duty and once they return to civilian life.
When service members return to civilian life, it is imperative that they receive excellent healthcare, help with the benefits they have earned, and support with other issues that may arise. They have served our great Nation with honor and we must fulfill our promises to them.
To all of our Veterans in Maine and across our Nation: thank you.
