Veterans Day

Good morning. Emily Wilkins, thanks for that kind introduction, and for leading this important organization. Let me recognize the Press Club’s American Legion Post and its commander, Tom Young, and all the Veterans Service Organizations represented here.

It is fitting that we gather today at Arlington National Cemetery, on these hallowed, rolling hills overlooking our nation’s capital. With one sweep of the eye, we see the cost of freedom in the rows of marble headstones stretching into the distance, the final resting places of our nation’s heroes, and in the precision of the sentinels guarding the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier.

Today is a day to honor Veterans; to remember all that they have done for our nation — for each of us; to reflect on those heroes still Missing in Action — heroes whom we miss, we love, long for, and hope to see come home, and soon; and recognize that when Veterans served, their families, their caregivers, survivors sacrificed right alongside with them.