At the 11th hour, on the 11th day, of the 11th month, 100 years ago, World War I ended with Germany signing an armistice agreement with the allied forces.  Once thought to be “the war to end all wars,” World War I took the lives of nine million soldiers, in addition to millions of innocent civilians.

One year after the armistice, on November 11, 1919, America celebrated Armistice Day as a time to commemorate all of those who fought for our country. This marked the birth of what has become rich tradition in our country to honor veterans every year on a designated date. By 1954, it became apparent that we needed to not only celebrate those who served in World War I, but all those who have served in our armed forces. Through an act of Congress and Proclamation of President Dwight D. Eisenhower, November 11 officially became “Veterans Day” as we know it today.

As a Brigadier General in the Ohio Army National Guard and veteran of Operation Iraqi Freedom, Veterans Day has always been a personally important day to remember and thank all of those who came before me in service to the United States. This year being the 100th Anniversary of the Armistice is even more meaningful, as my grandfather served in World War I. Because of this, from a very young age, the importance of honoring our veterans was instilled in me. That’s why, since coming to Congress, I have worked to ensure veterans receive the recognition and benefits they have earned and deserve.

For example, I was proud to lead the effort with Congresswoman Joyce Beatty (D-OH) to support and secure the national designation for the National Veterans Memorial and Museum in downtown Columbus.  This Memorial and Museum will allow Americans from across the country to hear the stories of veterans from all eras, conflicts and branches of the military throughout the year. This project represents America’s continuing commitment to honoring our veterans.   

I have also worked on other bipartisan initiatives to help veterans, such as legislation to provide therapy dogs to veterans, help veterans struggling with homelessness, and ensure veterans receive the mental health care they need. Moving forward, I remain committed to supporting efforts like these to assist veterans.

As we observe Veterans Day again this year, I hope that you will join me in thanking veterans in your community, and commemorating those who paid the ultimate price for our freedoms. To veterans across the country: THANK YOU for your service and sacrifice, and Happy Veterans Day.

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