Always honor service, sacrifice of our veterans

One hundred and six years ago, on Nov. 11, 1918, an armistice was signed and World War 1 ended. That war was to be "The war to end all wars." However, it was not long before that dream would become a nightmare with the advent of World War II followed by the Korean War, Vietnam, 9/11, Iraq and Afghanistan.

Some ask why we are engaged in these conflicts and are easily informed that America is the shining light of freedom for all.

Veterans decided to live a life of sacrifice and service for the benefit of America. And while on Veteran's Day last Saturday and every day, we honor and rejoice the service of America's veterans, we also remember their great sacrifices.

Veterans chose to endure long separations from their families, freezing in subzero temperatures, sweating in the deserts of the world, sacrificing their health and far too often losing their lives so that we can be safe.

Our veterans helped make our nation the greatest force for peace on the face of the earth. America's veterans and those serving today, have come forward to stand in the way of our enemies. Their strength has been a signal to other nations that we stand ready to defend our freedom.

As a nation and as individuals, we must honor the men and women of the military both present and past who have made our world better. As a country, there's no one more deserving of our gratitude and respect than those who have served in the military.

We must never forget the service of our veterans and as a nation we must learn to keep our promises made to them and their families who have sacrificed so much that we can live in the land of the free and the home of the brave.

God Bless America, our veterans and all of you.

Mike Formento

Glen Ellyn