In a heartfelt discussion during a recent government meeting, speakers emphasized the importance of Veterans Day as a time to honor and appreciate the sacrifices made by servicemen and women. The meeting highlighted the need for ongoing recognition of veterans, not just on the designated day but throughout the year.

Holden Dray opened the dialogue by urging attendees to express gratitude to veterans for their service, noting that their sacrifices have safeguarded the freedoms and dignity of all Americans. He quoted Joseph Campbell, stating that a hero is someone who has given their life to something larger than themselves, underscoring the selflessness inherent in military service. Dray shared personal anecdotes about his aunt's military service, illustrating the challenges faced by veterans and their families during deployment.

Julia Kennedy followed with her reflections on the significance of Veterans Day, tracing its origins back to World War I when it was first recognized as Armistice Day. She highlighted President Woodrow Wilson's intent to honor those who served and sacrificed during the war, a sentiment that was later expanded by President Dwight Eisenhower to include all veterans. Kennedy expressed her personal connection to the military through her father, a Marine, and emphasized the importance of supporting veterans daily.

Both speakers called for a collective commitment to honor veterans consistently, recognizing their bravery and dedication as foundational to the nation's security and freedom. The meeting served as a poignant reminder of the ongoing need to appreciate the contributions of veterans and their families, reinforcing that a simple \"thank you\" can have a profound impact.