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Nation Honors Sacrifices of Veterans on Veterans Day

  • Published
  • By Sean Worrell
  • 12th Flying Training Wing
JOINT BASE SAN ANTONIO-RANDOLPH, Texas --  

Today, across towns and cities nationwide, Americans are pausing to honor the men and women who have served in the United States Armed Forces. Veterans Day, a national holiday observed every November 11, recognizes the sacrifices and service of millions who have worn the military uniform, many of whom faced grave dangers and challenges while protecting the nation.

For retired U.S. Army Sgt. Jonathan Mallard, a former combat medic, the meaning of service took on a deeper resonance during his time in uniform. “Like many young people, I enlisted mainly as a way to leave my small town, seeking better opportunities and a brighter future. I wasn’t driven by a strong sense of patriotic conviction like many others were,” Mallard recalled. “It wasn’t until I witnessed the death of someone I cared about that I truly began to grasp the impact, importance, and value of sacrifice. That moment profoundly shifted my perspective on what it means to serve and the heavy costs that can come with it.”

Veterans Day was initially known as Armistice Day, commemorating the end of World War I in 1918. In 1954, the holiday was renamed Veterans Day to honor all military veterans. Across the U.S., the day is marked with parades, wreath-laying ceremonies, and moments of silence. Schools, government offices, and businesses hold special events to express gratitude for the sacrifices and dedication of service members from all generations and branches.

Retired U.S. Air Force Master Sgt. Curtis Robertson, who served as an air traffic controller, believes acknowledging veterans is key to honoring their service. “The most important way to honor our U.S. veterans is with acknowledgment,” Robertson said. “When, where, and how we acknowledge our veterans is and should be a personal choice. Whether it’s attending a parade; participating in an event; commemorating a historic action; volunteering or donating to a veteran-centric cause; or simply by saying, ‘thank you for your service’ to someone who served.”

Robertson also reflected on how his military experience deepened his appreciation of citizenship and freedom. “Having served in uniform, I view my citizenship with pride and my freedom with honor,” he said. “I understand and appreciate that both can be precious as well as fragile. Which is why today, although no longer in uniform, I still proudly serve.”

Mallards shared a message of hope for fellow veterans as they transition to civilian life. “I want veterans to know that there is life and purpose beyond service. Just because your military career ends doesn’t mean your purpose has to. You can still contribute to something greater than yourself,” he said. “Find a way to continue serving your community. Don’t let the desire to serve fade away after your time in the military—it’s a part of who you are, and it can continue to shape your life in meaningful ways.”

As Americans gather this Veterans Day, their reflections turn to the valor, struggles, and contributions of veterans like Mallard and Robertson, whose dedication to service—often at great personal cost—upholds the values of the nation.