PRESIDENT BUSH: Thank you. Thanks for coming. Secretary
Nicholson, thank you for your kind words and for your leadership.
Members of the Cabinet, Members of Congress, members of the United State
military, all veterans, all volunteers who have sworn to uphold the
security of the United States, I thank your families for being here and
I thank our veterans. I am proud to join you on this day of honor.
On this day, in this month, at this hour, our nation remembers the
moment when the guns of World War I went silent -- and we recognize the
service and the sacrifice of our nation's veterans. From Valley Forge to
Vietnam, from Kuwait to Kandahar, from Berlin to Baghdad, our veterans
have borne the costs of America's wars -- and they have stood watch over
America's peace. The American people are grateful to the veterans and
all who have fought for our freedom.
Since the presidency of Abraham Lincoln, the National Cemetery has
reminded our citizens of the cost of liberty. The simple white markers
testify to honor fulfilled and duty served. Most of these markers stand
over graves of Americans who came home to enjoy the peace they earned.
Too many stand over the graves of those who gave their lives to protect
that peace. This day is dedicated to all who answered the call to
service -- whether they live in honor among us, or sleep in valor
beneath this sacred ground.
On this Veterans Day, we give thanks for the 24 million Americans who
strengthen our nation with their example of service and sacrifice. Our
veterans are drawn from many generations and from many backgrounds. Some
charged across great battlefields. Some fought on the high seas. Some
patrolled the open skies. And all contributed to the character and to
the greatness of America.
On this Veterans Day, we honor a new generation of men and women who
are defending our freedom. Since September the 11th, 2001, our Armed
Forces have engaged the enemy, the terrorists on many fronts. At this
moment, more than 1.4 million Americans are on active duty, serving in
the cause of freedom and peace around the world. They are our nation's
finest citizens. (Applause.) They confront grave danger to defend the
safety of the American people. They've brought down tyrants, they've
liberated two nations, they have helped bring freedom to more than 50
million people. Through their sacrifice, they're making this nation
safer and more secure -- and they are earning the proud title of
veteran. (Applause.)
On this Veterans Day, we're humbled by the strong hearts of those who
have served. Last week, Secretary Nicholson told me about a visit he
made to New York City where he met a group of veterans who lost limbs in
this war. Secretary Nicholson asked them how they could keep their
spirits up. One man answered, "Sir, it is because we feel the American
people are so appreciative of our service." Many of our veterans bear
the scars of their service to our country - and we are a nation that
will keep its commitments to those who have risked their lives for our
freedom. That young man was right -- we do appreciate the service of
those who wear our uniform. (Applause.)
To help Americans show our appreciation to those who have served,
Secretary Nicholson has asked all our nation's veterans to wear their
medals today. I urge our citizens to go up to those men and women and
shake a hand and give a hug, and give a word of thanks. I ask you to
consider volunteering at a veterans hospital or a nursing home. I
encourage you to work with your local veterans group to help support our
troops in the field -- and their families here at home.
As we raise our flag and as the bugle sounds taps, we remember that
the men and women of America's Armed Forces serve a great cause. They
follow in a great tradition, handed down to them by America's veterans.
And in public ceremonies and in private prayer, we give thanks for the
freedom we enjoy because of their willingness to serve. (Applause.)
I thank you for honoring those who serve today, and for honoring
those who have set such a sterling example -- our nation's veterans. May
God bless our veterans, may God bless all who wear the uniform, and may
God continue to bless the United States of America. (Applause.) |