This week is a very important commemoration during which we as citizens of the United States pay tribute to the service and sacrifice of the men and women who, in defense of our freedom, have bravely worn the uniform of service. The purpose of Veterans Day, which will be held Tuesday, November 11, is to honor and thank all military personnel who served the United States in all wars, particularly living ones. Marked by parades and church services and in many places, the American flag is hung at half mast. A period of silence lasting two minutes is held by many at 11 a.m. on this day.

Veterans Day, in 2005 was created as a permanent extension of Veterans Awareness Week, which was first held in that same year.

America’s war veterans who answered the call to help protect our nation’s ideals, rescued millions from tyranny and helped to spread freedom around the globe. Members of the Army, Navy, Air Force, Marines and Coast Guard have earned the right to be honored on this day.

We also remember and honor the loyalty, dedication and valor of those who selflessly laid down their lives for our benefit.

During this week, Secretary of Veterans Affairs Dr. James B. Peake calls on Americans to recognize the nation’s 23.4 million living veterans and the generations before them who fought to protect our freedom.