Veterans Day is a time to pause, a moment to reflect on the importance of the lives lost, but also on the lives that are still with us. It is a day to honor those who endured horrific days for the sake of our country and who continue to walk this earth carrying the weight of being such important and valued individuals.
Many veterans today go unrecognized, when in reality, they do not receive nearly enough acknowledgment. These strong individuals fought for our country and continue to fight every day as they live with the lasting costs of war. It is heartbreaking to think that so many veterans, who have devoted nearly their entire lives to service, might pass on without the recognition and honor they truly deserve.
On a personal level, my grandpa, Dennis Rania, was a Vietnam Veteran who served in the U.S. Army’s 101st Airborne Screaming Eagles (Special Forces). He was the strongest man I knew, without a doubt. For those who come from military families, we share a deep and unspoken understanding. I mention this not only to give my grandpa the recognition he deserves, but also to remind others that there are veterans among us who still feel as though they will pass on without importance.
I know this because my grandfather would often tell us, his grandkids and my mother, things like, “No one cares…” Hearing those words from someone you see as a pillar of strength is devastating. I come from a family with many who have served in the military. My great-grandfather, Marcelino, was also in the Army and fought in World War II, serving in the infamous Battle of Bataan.
Furthermore, the veterans who are still with us deserve to know they are valued far more than they realize. Where would we be without them? What path would our world have taken without our strongest fighters? Honor your veterans. They are the reason we stand where we do today.
Please take a moment tomorrow to think about the many freedoms you enjoy because of veterans’ sacrifices. Military families sacrifice holidays, celebrations, and time spent together so that we are all safe and well. Those sacrifices deserve the utmost respect and consideration. And if you know a veteran, please remember to thank them for their service.
