KANSAS CITY, Mo. — On Nov. 11, the Veterans of Foreign Wars (VFW) and its 1 million members salute in recognition, gratitude and respect, every American who has bravely put on our nation’s uniform in defense of our democracy and freedom.
For the VFW, Veterans Day is not just any holiday, but a sacred opportunity to pause and honor the extraordinary service, selfless sacrifice and unyielding commitment of generation after generation of our nation’s veterans. From the battlefields of World War I to the front lines of today, their vigilance ensures the preservation of the freedoms and country we love so dearly.
The debt our nation owes extends far beyond the uniform, as we recognize the vital support and immense sacrifice borne by military spouses, children and families. The VFW is continuously awed by their resilience and fortitude, while also lifting up those still missing and unaccounted for. The VFW continues to reiterate its solemn vow to the nearly 81,000 who remain unaccounted for, promising that we will never cease our efforts to bring them home.
Veterans Day is at its core, a day of celebration and recognition, but this year our nation’s veteran and military communities face unprecedented hardships. The government shutdown created significant uncertainty and financial strain, particularly for active-duty service members and our National Guard and Reserve who continue to fulfill their oath without the guarantee of their next paycheck.
The VFW remains resolved in being the voice for veterans and remains dedicated to doing everything it can to ensure our uniformed heroes and their families receive the timely and equitable pay they earn. Further, VFW Posts around the country continually step up through food bank donations and distributions, financial assistance and providing other means of vital support to military and veteran families difficult and uncertain times.
For 126 years the VFW’s mission hasn’t changed, and we will continue to advocate tirelessly for the benefits, health care and rights earned by all who have served. Together with its VFW Auxiliary, we call on all Americans to join us on Veterans Day in honoring our veterans, recognizing their indispensable legacy and ensuring their service is honored not just today, but in the years and decades to come.