×

Words to reflect on this most solemn of days

In observance of Veterans Day, we are sharing some statements from presidents, statesmen and others on the sacrifices of our veterans and the importance of honoring their commitment and service.

“Our debt to the heroic men and valiant women in the service of our country can never be repaid. They have earned our undying gratitude.” — President Harry S. Truman

“As we express our gratitude, we must never forget that the highest appreciation is not to utter words, but to live by them.” — President John F. Kennedy

“Veterans know better than anyone else the price of freedom, for they’ve suffered the scars of war. We can offer them no better tribute than to protect what they have won for us.” — President Ronald Reagan

“It’s about how we treat our veterans every single day of the year. It’s about making sure they have the care they need and the benefits that they’ve earned when they come home. It’s about serving all of you as well as you’ve served the United States of America.” — President Barack Obama

“Whatever gains are secured, it is loss the veteran remembers most keenly. Only a fool or a fraud sentimentalizes the merciless reality of war.” — John McCain

“The battle, sir, is not to the strong alone; it is to the vigilant, the active, the brave.” — Patrick Henry

“America’s finest – our men and women in uniform, are a force for good throughout the world, and that is nothing to apologize for.” — Sarah Palin

“Those that die for a good cause hover as a cloud of witnesses over the nation.” — Henry Ward Beecher

“We can’t equate spending on veterans with spending on defense. Our strength is not just in the size of our defense budget, but in the size of our hearts, in the size of our gratitude for their sacrifice. And that’s not just measured in words or gestures.” — Jennifer Granholm

“A hero is someone who understands the responsibility that comes with his freedom.” — Bob Dylan

“Courage is contagious. When a brave man takes a stand, the spines of others are often stiffened.” — Billy Graham

NEWSLETTER

Today's breaking news and more in your inbox

I'm interested in (please check all that apply)
Are you a paying subscriber to the newspaper? *
   

Starting at $4.62/week.

Subscribe Today