Giving Thanks To The Men and Women In Uniform

November 17, 2005, For many Tennessee families, this Thanksgiving takes on a special significance with the return of the Tennessee Army National Guard’s 278th Armored Calvary Regiment. Members of the 278th have fought valiantly in the Middle East, and I know I join with countless Tennesseans in welcoming them home.

America is truly a great country, and residents of this nation have many reasons to be thankful. Of course, we owe much of our gratitude to our veterans. Through their noble service, these heroes have kept our country free, safe and strong.

When their nation has needed them, these brave men and women have answered the call to service. Their sacrifices and those of our military families are the foundation of our freedom. Without the efforts of the members of our armed forces, our country would not stand so boldly, shine so brightly and live so freely.

As I was growing up in Murfreesboro, I learned the importance of appreciating and honoring our nation’s veterans. My father served in World War II, and he worked as a groundskeeper at the York VA Medical Center. While volunteering at the VA as a teenager, I met many veterans who sought care there.

Now, I have the opportunity in Congress to show my gratitude to them by protecting the interests and welfare of the 540,000 veterans who reside in Tennessee.

Fighting for our veterans is a duty that I take very seriously. In return for their service to our nation, we need to ensure our veterans receive all the commitments they were promised. Providing essential medical care is one way we can show our thanks and honor them for their service and sacrifice.

As my family sits down for Thanksgiving dinner, I will thank God for all the blessings I have received during the past year. And I will thank God for our veterans.