Honoring Our Heroes: Chrissy’s Veterans Day Message

Dear John,

Every year on November 11, we honor the brave men and women who have served this country as members of the United States Armed Forces. Through their selfless service, they have protected the freedoms we’ve held dear since our Founding Fathers turned away from the King of England and toward democracy more than 250 years ago. It takes extraordinary individuals to place their country's needs above their own. Today, I salute these veterans and encourage us all to reflect on their sacrifices and patriotism.

I am not only a Member of Congress but also a third-generation veteran myself. I have both deep respect and personal understanding of the burdens and sacrifices of military service and am committed to ensuring our veterans receive the care, recognition, and support they deserve as thanks from a grateful nation. Whether it's through improved health care, access to education, or ensuring that their voices are heard, we must always strive to give back to those who have given so much for us. This Congress, I was able to lead six bills and co-sponsored 38 bills that would help improve the lives of all veterans.

What can you do to honor a veteran today?

Here are a few ways to celebrate Veterans Day today (and all year long):

Visit your local VFW or VA: Most communities have a local military gathering place like the VFW or American Legion. Many similarly have a VA Hospital or related facilities with patients who could use a visit. Spend time with a veteran, listen to their stories, and gift them with your attention and gratitude on Veterans Day and any other day of the year.
Honor deceased veterans: Today is about honoring all veterans, including the ones who have passed away. Stop by a cemetery to clean up veterans’ gravesites, place flags, or just reflect there for a minute or two. You can also visit the Medal of Honor Grove in Valley Forge to be in nature among a memorial to the more than 3,500 soldiers who received our nation’s highest military decoration.
Get involved: There are many local and national nonprofit organizations dedicated to taking care of our military veterans. Find one whose mission resonates with you and volunteer your time to care for our American heroes.

Earlier today, I had the opportunity to call veterans in Berks and Chester Counties to thank them for their service, you can listen to a recording of that call here. If you know a veteran, please share this message from me.

Honoring Veterans in our Community

Just over a week ago, I had the honor and privilege of presenting Sergeant First Class Michael Picard from Bucks County with a Purple Heart award at Valley Forge Chapel, recognizing his extraordinary courage and commitment to our nation. The Purple Heart is presented to service members who are wounded or killed in the line of duty, symbolizing sacrifice and valor.

This award honors Specialist Picard's contributions to the United States Armed Forces and the Pennsylvania National Guard. As a third-generation veteran, thank you to SFC Picard, his whole family and to Valley Forge Military Academy and College, for including me in this honor.

In March, I had the honor of awarding a Silver Star to a decorated veteran from Birchrunville who heroically saved many of his fellow soldiers during the Vietnam War. Let me share a bit about the recipient, the beautiful ceremony, and how we helped the Liss Family obtain this award.

More than 50 years ago, Army Captain Lawrence (Larry) Liss risked his life and used a helicopter's rotor blades to cut through a dense thicket where soldiers were trapped. Under heavy enemy fire, he and his crew flew in to rescue them in the jungle of Vietnam. He did this six times despite the increasing danger and damage to his helicopter, saving the lives of 80 soldiers. Working with the Liss family to help Larry receive his long overdue recognition and bestowing the Silver Star on Captain Liss was a highlight of my time in Congress and as a veteran. Thank you, Larry, for your dedication and heroism.

An opportunity to share your story

Calling all veterans! Would you like to share your story with the Library of Congress? The Library of Congress collects stories from veterans who have served in World War I up to the present day. Members of our community have been featured in this project, including Cindy Abbadini Of Kennet Square American Legion Post 491. Learn more about getting involved in the project here.

How we recently helped a veteran’s family

We recently helped Ruby and her mother access lost military records from the National Personnel Records Center.

Does Ruby’s case sound familiar? Do you have similar questions or need help? Contact our office for help with any VA-related issues. You can also visit VA.gov to learn more about your benefits and how bipartisan bills like the PACT Act are helping thousands of veterans every day.

Serving as our community's representative is the honor of my lifetime, and I hope to hear from you soon about any issue that concerns you.

As always, please contact my office if you need assistance.

Be well, and see you soon!

Chrissy Houlahan

U.S. Member of Congress

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