Remembering our Veterans

Veterans Day is about remembering and recognizing the service, sacrifices and selflessness of our nation's Veterans.

By fighting our nation's wars and defending us all during periods of peace between wars, Veterans have protected our way of life and the freedoms we all enjoy-to speak without fear, to vote as we see fit, and to gather, as we do today.

We owe them all a debt of gratitude for the burdens they have borne.

Today, we recommit to honoring America's Veterans and renewing our obligation to fulfill President Lincoln's charge to care for those "who shall have borne the battle" and their families, caregivers and survivors.

Veterans Day is not just a day, but also a call to action. It's a reminder that it is our sacred responsibility as Americans to serve those who have served our country.

We are reminded that our nation's "most sacred obligation" is to prepare and equip the troops we send into harm's way, and to care for them and their families when they return home.

That job belongs to every single American.

Because whenever someone signs up to serve our country in the military, our nation makes them a simple promise:

If you take care of us, we will take care of you.

If you fight for us, we will fight for you.

If you serve us, we will serve you when you come home.

And so today, we recommit ourselves to upholding that promise-and all the principles of democracy for which Veterans have fought and bled to defend.

That is our most sacred responsibility as Americans-on this Veterans Day and every day.

On this day, we honor your service and your sacrifice. This day is your day.

May God bless all our Veterans, their families, caregivers and survivors, and may he continue to bless our great country.