Dear John,

Happy Veterans Day! Today, we take a moment to honor the brave men and women who have made immense sacrifices for the freedoms we hold dear.

To the millions of veterans across the nation, we say THANK YOU!

For the state of Alabama, this holiday holds a special significance. In fact, it was Birmingham native Raymond Weeks who fought to expand Armistice Day to include all veterans, thus establishing what we now call Veterans Day.

Alabama is home to four active military bases and nearly 400,000 veterans who we are proud to call our friends, neighbors, coworkers, and family. We in Alabama are loyal and patriotic, with a love of country that is never diminished.

Rep. Sewell thanks the Tuskegee Airmen for their service

I want to take a moment to specifically acknowledge the contributions of our African American veterans who have not only fought our enemies — they have had to fight for their right to fight in the first place!

Look no further than the Tuskegee Airmen! When told that they could not fight on behalf of their country, these American heroes refused to take no for an answer, risking life and limb to protect our American ideals.

Imagine loving something so fiercely that you are willing to march, protest, and advocate for the honor of risking your life to protect it. That is the depth of love of country that our African American veterans have so honorably displayed.

Today, I hosted a very special Veterans Day edition of "Terri Talks" with Colonel Gregory L. Clark and Lieutenant Colonel R. Carolyn Culpepper, two 33-year retired U.S. Army veterans here in Alabama's 7th Congressional District. We discussed their decision to join the Armed Forces and the meaning of Veterans Day. Click below to watch!

Our veterans deserve more than just a "thank you." They deserve action. That's why last year, with my support, Democrats in Congress passed the "Honoring our PACT Act" — the largest expansion of veterans health benefits in over 30 years.

The law expands eligibility for VA healthcare and disability benefits for veterans exposed to burn pits and toxic substances during their service. Already, over one million veterans have submitted PACT Act claims, including 3,377 in Alabama's 7th Congressional District. Since we enacted this law, more than $2.4 billion in benefits have been awarded to veterans and their survivors across the nation.

For too long, our servicemembers have put their lives on the line to defend our nation and returned home with a greater risk of cancer, respiratory diseases, and other harmful conditions because of exposure to toxic substances.

Just as our veterans made a commitment to serve our nation, we have a responsibility to serve them after they return home. Now, thanks to President Biden and Democrats in Congress, the PACT Act is ensuring our veterans have access to the lifesaving care they have earned. 

We must never forget the precious gift of freedom that is preserved because of the dedication and courage of our nation’s veterans. For that, we owe them an enormous debt of gratitude.

As always, please be sure to check in regularly with our website and social media pages (Twitter, Facebook, and Instagram) for updates. If you'd like to share your thoughts or concerns, you can email me here.

Today and every day, it is an honor to serve you in Congress. Take good care.

Sincerely,

Congresswoman Terri A. Sewell