Post Messenger Recorder -

When Francis Scott Key wrote the “Star Spangled Banner,” he called America “the land of the free and the home of the brave.” Those words are as true today as they were then.

Throughout this nation’s history, America’s soldiers, sailors, airmen, Marines, and Coast Guardsmen have bravely answered the call to defend our freedom, to come to the aid our friends and allies, and to turn back aggressors.

We can never fully repay our debt of gratitude to the more than 650,000 American service members who died in battle or the 1.4 million who were wounded.

We can, however, recognize and thank the 25 million veterans still living today. And to all those serving today, we thank you.

These words are inscribed on the Korean War Memorial in Washington, D.C.: “Our nation honors her sons and daughters who answered the call to defend a country they never knew and a people they never met.”

Those words apply equally to many of our World War I, World War II, Vietnam War, and Gulf War veterans as well. They apply to today’s active duty service members — tomorrow’s veterans — who are helping to maintain peace throughout the world.

Today, it is our privilege to say “thank you” to all of America’s veterans, to let them know that we appreciate them for their service and honor them for their sacrifices.

The price of freedom is high. We cannot afford to forget those willing to pay it.

Today, we celebrate America’s veterans.

We need to Honor them: regard with great respect. We need to honor real heroes, not the money glitter. Real people who give of themselves.

Admire them: someone you have deep admiration for. Someone who deserves it.

Patriotism: love for ones country. Pride of what we have here. Yes we need to get back on track but this is America we need to work together and get that feeling back out there.

Feel it when you here the Star Spangled Banner, when you see the soldiers go by, know that life is here is way better then elsewhere. People have fought and lost lives fighting for you give them the respect, and honor they deserve.

The Veterans Day Program will be held on Wednesday, November 11, 2015, in the Belleville High School Gymnasium at 7:00 p.m.

Hope to you all there.

Any questions call Connie at (608) 424-3076 or email 4650pay@chart

er.net.