Master Chief Petty Officer of the Navy (MCPON)(AW/NAC) Mike D. Stevens released the following Veterans Day message to the Fleet Nov. 9.
“Veterans, Shipmates and Navy Families,
On Veterans Day, we remember and pay tribute to those who have gone before us and say ‘thank you’ to those who are currently in uniform. Since our country’s beginning, there have been special men and women willing to fight to guarantee the freedoms we hold so dear. I am honored that our Sailors today are a part of that rich legacy.
Our veterans represent the best of America, coming from every walk of life to make a positive impact on our great nation. They have inspired a new generation of heroes through their amazing stories of wars won, lives lost, valor, and patriotism.
We should take every opportunity to recognize our veterans along with two other groups I think are important: American citizens and the many support groups who help our veterans, service members and Navy families. Our country is full of people dedicated to our nation who show an unwavering commitment to our military. Our military could not do what we do without your commitment and support.
There is something special about the people who answer the call to service: there is courage in their hearts that allows them to put their life on the line for the American way of life. It is about an understanding of our shared values and making sure our children, our country’s future, can be proud of those values and be proud to call themselves Americans.
I am thankful for the sacrifices our veterans made, and for the continued efforts our Sailors and their families make every day to preserve our liberties. May God Bless you and may God Bless the United States of America.
Happy Veterans Day and all the best!
Very Respectfully, MCPON”
[mappress] Naval Today Staff,November 11, 2012; Image: US Navy