Ambassador
Ambassador's Speech
AMBASSADOR'S REMARKS FOR VETERANS'S DAY RECEPTION
November 9, 2007
We observe Veterans Day on an anniversary -- not of a great battle or of the beginning of a war, but of a day when war ended and our nation was again at peace. Ever since the Armistice of November the 11th, 1918, this has been a day to remember our debt to all who have worn the uniform of the United States.
More than 25 million Americans wear the proud title of veteran. Our veterans include more than 11 million men and women from the conflicts of Korea, Vietnam. More than 4 million living Americans served in World War II.
Today, in assignments around the world, more than 1.4 million Americans are on active duty, earning the title of veteran by serving in the cause of freedom. Standing here with us today are soldiers, sailors, airmen, and marines as well representatives of our coalition allies. Many of those present have served honorably in combat in Afghanistan, Iraq, the Philippines, and Panama. Many have deployed in peacekeeping and humanitarian operations from Haiti to Bosnia to Indonesia and Central America.
Today and every day, the prayers of the American people are with those who wear our country's uniform. They serve a great cause and they follow a great tradition, handed down to them by America's veterans.
Our veterans from every era are the finest of citizens. We owe them the life we know today; they have our lasting gratitude.
I would now like to ask that we observe a minute of silence in memory of those who have died over the centuries defending our country.
// Minute of silence //
Thank you for coming today. May God bless America, and may God bless all who defend it.