I want to extend my deepest gratitude to the brave men and women who have served and are currently serving our country in the Armed Forces. These men and women continually put themselves in harm’s way in order to protect our freedom and the ideals on which our country was founded.  Our military men and women have always served with dignity, selflessness and honor around the world.

On Veterans Day and throughout the rest of the year, it is important that we remember the sacrifices they have made, and extend to them the same level of dedication which they have shown us.

We must continue to ask ourselves if we’re treating our service men and women in accordance with the values and freedoms they risk their lives to defend. Returning soldiers have long received inadequate services from our government. We must all continue to focus on ensuring veterans receive everything they deserve for their dedication and sacrifice on our behalf. This includes a fully-funded VA system and benefits that ensure veterans’ access to quality health care and a good education, so that upon their return, they too can partake in the American Dream.

Throughout the day, I will offer my personal thanks to some of these veterans at events all over Michigan’s 15th Congressional District.  I encourage you to join me in showing appreciation for our veterans and our service men and women, as we enjoy the many freedoms they have secured and protected for us and for future generations of Americans.

John D. Dingell