America is blessed to have people willing to step forward and choose to don the uniform of our nation’s armed forces. For over 245 years, since the beginning of our country in the Revolutionary War, over 41 million Americans have served in our nation’s armed forces.

This has been a difficult year, with unexpected challenges and changes to our everyday routines. We have been divided and isolated from one another as we continue to protect the health and safety of our families and our fellow citizens. As we adapt to our continuously changing circumstances, we cannot forget that we are not alone. We must find a way and make time to come back together.

Now, on Wednesday, November 11, 2020, Veterans Day celebrations around the country may look different than in years past. Many celebrations will have new procedures, they may be held virtually or in a new location – but the mission and the intent are still the same.

Today is a day to celebrate one of the defining aspects of the American experience and the spirit of the American servicemember.

Today is a day to remember, thank, and honor the brave men and women who chose to serve in the armed forces of the United States.

Coming from different cultural backgrounds, different lifestyles, and different ways of life – millions of brave men and women have put aside their differences to serve together, bound by a shared oath and united under a shared flag.

United in the shared belief of freedom as a human right. United in the shared belief of democracy. United in the shared belief of justice for all.

I encourage everyone to take a moment today and pause in appreciation of the service and spirit of America’s veterans. Take a moment and make the words “thank you for your service” ring true for every veteran who hears or sees them.

Today, we celebrate the service of almost 20 million veterans across the nation, including nearly 700,000 veterans living in Georgia.

To the men and women serving today, we are here for you. We offer you our support and our warmest regards in anticipation of the day you join us as veterans.

Thank you, my fellow and future veterans. May God bless you and may God bless America.


Sincerely,
Mike Roby
Commissioner