Commentary: Veterans Day message

  • Published
  • By Col. Shawn R. Burrus
  • 157th Air Refueling Wing Commander
Veterans Day is held each year to honor men and women who have served our nation in uniform.

As we celebrate veterans from generations past on Nov. 11, we also recognize a new generation of veterans who bravely stand ready to represent their nation and state at home and abroad.

For our Airmen serving around the world today, and to those transitioning out of the military, our sincere appreciation for your service cannot be overstated. Taking care of you, and your families, is a sacred responsibility we must always uphold.

Recently I had the pleasure of coining former U.S. Army Air Corps Tech. Sgt. Herman 'Herk' Streitburger who spoke to members of the 157th Air Refueling Wing about his experience as a prisoner of war during World War II. Listening to this great American reaffirmed my belief that our nation's veterans are some of our greatest treasures. We owe them a great debt of gratitude.

I ask you to make a difference this Veterans Day. Whether attending a Veterans Day parade, volunteering at a veteran's hospital, speaking with children about your service or sending care packages to some of our courageous Airmen that are deployed - I encourage you to make a difference.

On this Veterans Day please also keep those deployed, in far off destinations, in your thoughts and prayers. Today's service members continue professionally serving to defend this great nation and must not be forgotten on this important day of reflection. 

To all our veterans - past and present - thank you. Thank you for all you've done for the 157th Air Refueling Wing, the New Hampshire Air National Guard and the United States Air Force. You're among the best our nation has to offer. 

God bless you and your families.