Honoring all who have served

Today, Thursday, Nov. 11 at 11 a.m., we will celebrate Veterans Day across our nation. Yes, it is a celebration, thanking all the men and women who have served and continue to serve in the Armed Forces of the United States.

But who are these veterans?

They are everyday people who became the finest military in the world. They are men and women of courage who have stepped forward to guarantee that we will remain "The Land of the Free."

Perhaps, they are your next-door neighbor, your grocer, your doctor, but because they do not seek notoriety or fame, you would not know they were veterans.

They come from all walks of life to serve in both peace and war. They represent the diverse fabric of our country. They are rich and poor, white and people of color, male and female. They come from every ethnicity and background. In short, they look like any one of us.

Yet, what sets them apart is they answered the call to defend our country when others would destroy our freedom. Veterans willingly put their life on the line to defend our freedom.

Are they heroes? Yes, every one of them. They are modest. They don't look for publicity. If asked, they would say they were just doing their job. So, if you know a veteran, reach out and thank them. Let them know we appreciate their protecting us and our way of life. Let them know we remember them by flying our flag on Veteran's Day.

Thank you for taking the time to remember our heroes. They never gave up on us, and we can't give up on them. God bless you all, bless our veterans and bless the United States of America.

Mike Formento, Commander

Glen Ellyn American Legion Post 3