On November 11, for the 100th time since 1919, Americans will pause and celebrate the service of millions of veterans.

100 years ago, President Woodrow Wilson first established Armistice Day as a day to “…be filled with solemn pride in the heroism of those who died in the country's service, and with gratitude for the victory, both because of the thing from which it has freed us and because of the opportunity it has given America to show her sympathy with peace and justice…” following the end of World War I.

While those brave patriots were not the first to lay down their lives in the defense of our country, they stand out as some of the finest examples of the American spirit and citizenship in our history.

Veterans Day, as formally established in 1954, is a day to salute the spirit of the American service member.

It is a day for all Americans to celebrate and honor the service and sacrifice of our veterans. It is also a day to honor the memory of all Americans who faithfully served in uniform and now rest in peace.

We set aside time on Veterans Day to show our appreciation for the brave men and women who join our armed forces – our Soldiers, Marines, Sailors, Airmen, and Guardsmen.  

Men and women who answer the call to service come from different backgrounds, different religions, and different cultures, but at the end of the day, they are a united team serving and defending the American ideals of liberty and justice for all.

Those who answer the call know they are part of a massive network of service members, veterans, and families who will always remember their courage and fortitude in the face of uncertainty.

The service and sacrifice of those who came before us will never be forgotten.  

Today we also thank our future veterans, serving at home and abroad. To those transitioning out of the military, we are here to help as you embark on the next stage of your personal journey.

To my fellow veterans, thank you. God bless you and may Veterans Day and every day bring you joy in the freedoms our country has thanks to your service and sacrifice.

– Commissioner Mike Roby
   Georgia Department of Veterans Service