COLUMNS

A Veterans Day Message from Senator John Sununu

With United States soldiers courageously serving in Iraq and Afghanistan, it is all the more meaningful that we set aside time to honor their brave predecessors – America’s veterans. In New Hampshire and across the nation, we recognize their sacrifices on Veterans Day – an opportunity to express gratitude to the men and women who fought tyranny to secure freedom at home and abroad.

Veterans Day tributes celebrate the heroism of those who served in our country’s armed services during times of peace and war. On this day, we are keenly aware of the bravery of America’s veterans as defenders of our country’s liberty.

Americans today also remain mindful of the servicemen and women who did not return home from battle. Having given the ultimate sacrifice for our nation and its ideals, they have earned their countrymen’s enduring admiration and appreciation. Here in New Hampshire, we continue to mourn the loss of Granite State soldiers who died fighting overseas. As we keep their families and friends in our thoughts, we pledge to never forget their selflessness and courage.

While we praise soldiers of years past, we renew our support for the New Hampshire men and women who have – like so many before them – left their hometowns to fight in foreign lands. As they battle dangerous enemies in the fight against terror, we renew our support for them on this Veterans Day. We are proud of all our country’s servicemen and women, and look forward to welcoming them back home.

The significant contributions which veterans have made to freedom in America and around the world highlight the need to support them on Veterans Day and throughout the year. During my time in Congress, I have been committed to ensuring that those who served in America’s armed services have access to quality health care, and receive the full benefits they have earned.

I thank members of New Hampshire’s veteran community for feedback on critical issues and encourage their continued calls, e-mails, and faxes. Regardless of this issue -whether on health benefits, survivor benefits or concurrent receipt, or others - the counsel of our veterans is always helpful in coming to a full understanding of their concerns.

Those who have served in the United States Armed Forces, and those who will enter service, should know that this country honors their sacrifices on Veterans Day and all year – in word and in deed. Because democracy is the fruit of their brave action, we can do no less for America’s veterans than to honor them after they leave service.

Although progress has been made in Congress to bolster support for the veteran community, much works remains. New Hampshire’s veterans can be assured that I will continue to advocate strongly for them in the United States Senate.

###

Editor’s note: Senator Sununu’s office remains a resource for veterans via e-mail at mailbox@sununu.senate.gov or at any of the following office locations:

BERLIN
60 Pleasant Street
Berlin, NH 03570
(603) 752-6074
FAX (603) 752-6423

CLAREMONT
50 Opera House Square
Claremont, NH 03743
(603) 542-4872
FAX (603) 542-6582

MANCHESTER
1589 Elm Street, Suite 3
Manchester, NH 03101
(603) 647-7500
FAX (603) 647-9352

PORTSMOUTH
One New Hampshire Avenue
Suite 120
Portsmouth, NH 03801
(603) 430-9560
FAX (603) 430-0058

WASHINGTON, DC
111 Russell Senate Office Building
Washington, DC 20510
(202) 224-2841
FAX (202) 228-4131