Navy Secetary Richard Spencer’s 2018 Veterans Day Message

Below is Navy Secretary Richard V. Spencer's Veterans Day message.

One hundred years ago, the guns fell silent across Europe on the 11th hour, of the 11th day, of the 11th month, of 1918. The armistice, which ended World War One, finally ended the most horrific warfare the world had ever seen and the world began its slow march to recovery that continues to this day.

We remember this war on November 11th and we remember the toll it took on nations across Europe and in every corner of the globe, but here in the United States we also use this day as an opportunity to remember those brave young Americans who left their homes and families to fight as the popular song went “Over There” they laid their lives on the line to people they’d never ever seen in far-off countries they’d never been and they made the critical difference, which helped bring the fighting to a close.

This was not the first time American troops had gone overseas to the aid of another nation nor would it be the last.

Throughout the 20th century and into the 21st, it was American Sailors, Marines, Soldiers, Airmen and Coast Guardsmen who stepped forward to defend the freedom in World War Two, Korea, Vietnam, the Gulf, Afghanistan, Iraq and many other challenges around the globe. And so on November 11th, we honor them as well.

The 11th day of the 11th month marks not just the anniversary of one war where American troops made the difference, but a day to remember all of the generations of warriors that came before them and after we know this is Veterans Day.

And this Veterans Day, I hope you’ll join me in thanking someone who served whether mother, father, brother, sister, aunt, uncle, neighbor or friend, and also remember those who still keep the watch and stand guard for freedom on this very day. Take a moment not only to thank them, but ask them to share with you why they chose to defend global safety and security.

We owe them a debt that can never fully be repaid, but which always must be remembered.

Defense Secretary Leon Panetta Calls On Nation To Honor Veterans

American Forces Press Service

WASHINGTON, Nov. 10, 2011 - Defense Secretary Leon E. Panetta today extended his thanks to troops and veterans in his 2011 Veterans Day message.

Here is the secretary's message:

Veterans Day is the day the American people set aside for honoring those, past and present, who've served our nation in uniform.

Since our nation's founding, American service members have stepped forward to safeguard liberty for future generations. And during the ten years since 9/11, another generation has answered this call to fight and sacrifice on foreign soil. They have done all that was asked of them and more. And as a result, on this Veterans Day, we are closer to prevailing in today's fights.

In Iraq, we are ending our combat presence this year, and Iraqis are now prepared to govern and defend their own country, which will act as a force for stability in a vital region of the world. In Afghanistan, our men and women are turning back an insurgency and building up Afghan security forces to prevent that country from ever again serving as a sanctuary for al-Qaida or its affiliates to threaten our homeland. In Libya, our forces supported a NATO operation that protected the Libyan people from a brutal dictator, who will never again be able to threaten his citizens or undermine international security. And on terrorism, we have significantly weakened al- Qaida and its allies, decimated their leadership, and kept American safer.

This progress would not be possible without the service and sacrifice of our men and women in uniform, and also of the families who love and support them. I'm delighted that President Obama designated November as Military Family Month, encouraging Americans to do more to recognize and support these great patriots.

This country owes a profound debt to all veterans, and military families. In these tough economic times, we're especially cognizant of our service members transitioning to civilian life, as well as our military spouses. And we must give them the best possible tools to succeed in professional pursuits. This week, I had the opportunity to meet with business leaders and press them to do just that -- so that we ensure our Veterans will continue to positively impact our country's future prosperity.

For serving our nation with such bravery and distinction, our veterans and current service members deserve our country's profound gratitude -- not just on Veteran's Day, but every day.

Thank you, and may God bless all Americans serving around the world in uniform.