Washington- President Obama laid a wreath at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldiers and delivered remarks in the memorial amphitheater in honor of Veteran’s Day at Arlington National Cemetery November 11.
The event hosted by Erik Shinseki Secretary of Veterans Affairs featured speeches by Major General Michael S. Linnington, commander of the U.S. military district of Washington and U.S. Commander-in-Chief Russel Vowinkel.
President Obama offered appreciation from the nation to veterans and their families, “to those who are still in harm’s way and to those we have laid to rest” saying “let us rededicate ourselves to serving them as well as they have served the United States of America.”
More than 5 million Americans have worn the uniform of the United States Armed Forces, in the last decade, Obama said, “Of these, 3 million stepped forward after the attacks of September 11th, knowing full well that they could be sent into harm’s way.”
The President acknowledged all US Veterans saying “Whether you fought in Salerno or Samarra, Khe Sanh or the Korengal, you are part of an unbroken chain of men and women who have served this country with honor and distinction. On behalf of a proud and grateful nation, we thank you,”
He also commended veterans for their continued service to America, service that continues after they have left the battlefield. He encouraged communities to embrace veterans as they return home.
“For many military families, this holiday season will be a season of homecomings,” he said noting that over the next five years, “more than 1 million Americans in uniform will transition back to civilian life.”
