Every Veterans Day, I think of my three big brothers — Don Reed, John, and David — who all served in the military. And I think of all the families who have sacrificed so much. 

After they went away, my mother would wait by the front door six days a week for the mail. The question of the day was always “Is there something from one of the boys?” 

When a letter came from one of the boys, the day was extra-sunny. She would read it and re-read it and call my aunts or my grandmother to read it again over the phone. My daddy would get home from work and she would be waiting with the letter in her hand. 

And on the days where a letter didn’t come, she would say, “Well, maybe tomorrow. Maybe tomorrow.” 

She cherished those letters. We all did. 

My brothers all made it home safely, and for that, I’m eternally grateful.

Growing up with brothers in the military gave Veterans Day a special meaning. I understand the responsibility we have to our veterans, and the unique burdens that military families carry. 

In Washington, I’ll keep pushing our government to make decisions in the best interest of our service members, their families, and our national security. To take care of our veterans when they come home.

We have to back our platitudes with meaningful action and policies that support our military both during and after service — good health care, quality and affordable housing, opportunities for a good education and a job. 

No matter how you honor Veterans Day, I hope you have a meaningful day.

Elizabeth