Today, May 19th, is Armed Forces Day in the United States. In 1949, according to the Department of Defense, “President Harry S. Truman led the effort to establish a single holiday for citizens to come together and thank our military members for their patriotic service in support of our country.” Today, I’d like to express again my own gratitude.
I’m something of a pacifist, and over the years, I’ve decried what I consider the unnecessary deployment of our military forces. But I have tremendous respect for all the men and women who have dedicated their lives to serving this country, and have volunteered to protect those of us who stay safe at home. They are principled and courageous, and we’ve asked so much of them.
Many have deployed three, four or even more tours of duty. They’ve faced the terrors of combat, the discomfort of hostile conditions, the boredom of living in encampments, and the pain of separation from the people they love. Their families have served, too. Military spouses have had to function as single parents, and endured constant worry, fear, and loneliness. Children have been deprived of one, and sometimes both of their parents, for months and often years.
This year’s observance is particularly relevant, because so many thousands of our troops are arriving home to face an uncertain future. They deserve our attention and our support. They need good jobs, and housing. Some of them, more than ever before, are arriving home wounded, and they are entitled to superior and timely medical care and ongoing benefits.
How can we help? A good place to begin is http://JoiningForces.gov. You can also search for programs in your community. Find one you like, and volunteer. Tell your Members of Congress and Senators you support legislation that assists veterans and their families. If you are involved in hiring for your company, reach out to veterans. We have a strong tradition of community involvement in this country, and now it’s time for us, the civilians, to serve.