A salute to all veterans
Nov. 11 is Veterans Day. One hundred years ago, on the 11th hour, of the 11th day of the 11th month World War I, the "War to End All Wars" was over.
Unfortunately, wars have not ended. Our military men and women have answered the call to service again and again in World War II, Korea, Vietnam, The Persian Gulf, Afghanistan and Iraq. They answered the call knowing they might not return, because they know "freedom is not free."
In a world beset by a pandemic and continuing conflicts, we pause today to pay tribute to all the veteran heroes of our country. In an age that threatens freedom, we join together to honor those that have made our freedom a continuing legacy.
These men and women come from all ethnic backgrounds and religions. Latinos, African Americans, Asian Pacific Americans, Native Americans, Christians, Jews, Buddhists, and Muslims.
Each of these groups have distinguished themselves in the defense of our country. These groups have faced severe discrimination at home but have continually answered the call to duty to protect our freedom.
They left segregation and injustice at home to serve side by side to protect our nation, because they believe that our way of life and freedom is for the benefit of all.
Let us all salute their efforts and say thanks to those who have served and those who continue to serve today.
America can sleep peacefully at night knowing they are protected by this vanguard of freedom.
God bless our veterans. God bless all of you. And God bless America.
Mike Formento, Commander
Glen Ellyn American Legion, Post 3