Happy Veterans Day.

As the proud daughter of two Air Force veterans, I've learned firsthand the courage and sacrifice that it takes to serve in our nation’s military.

And I couldn’t be more grateful for my parents and for the millions of other veterans who have put their lives on the line to defend our country and uphold our democratic values.

So to all those who have bravely served our country, thank you.

You make me proud to be an American. You make me proud to fly the flag. And your selfless commitment to our nation inspires me to continue serving as well.

Despite what some may say, patriotism doesn’t fall on party lines. It’s not reserved for just Zach Nunn, Donald Trump, and the Republican Party.

To me, patriotism means loving your country enough to see both its strengths and its flaws, and having the courage to fight to make it even better.

That’s why I’m running for Congress in Iowa’s Third District.

While our nation has come a long way over the past 250 years, we still have work to do.

Right now, too many Americans (including many of our brave veterans) are struggling to make ends meet, they’re lacking the health care they need, and they’re being left behind by leaders who are more interested in scoring political points than serving.

That has to change.

Because we owe it to ourselves and to our veterans to make sure “thank you for your service” isn’t just something we say, it’s something we show day in and day out.

And I’m ready to roll up my sleeves, get to work, and fight on behalf of those who have served our nation so courageously.

Again, I want to say thank you — to every veteran, and to their families and friends who stand beside them — for your extraordinary sacrifice.

Your courage and selflessness remind us all of what true service looks like. And it will never be forgotten.

With gratitude,

Jennifer Konfrst