John,

 

Today, Americans of all walks of life are joining together to celebrate those who serve our country in the Armed Services and to remember those who gave their all in defense of the American idea.

Watching our big, rambunctious, and passionate democracy in action over the last few weeks, I found myself thinking about the men and women in uniform -- my friends, my neighbors, my heroes -- who sacrificed everything to defend our freedoms and our political rights — including the right to vote. 

Countless lives have been lost in order to protect these freedoms and we must treasure them, not take them for granted. 

John, Veterans Day is near and dear to my heart. 

I served seven years of active duty in the Marine Corps. Many of my friends are still serving or are transitioning to civilian life after years on the front lines. I know firsthand what it’s like to fight against those who seek to take away our freedoms, and I know the struggle of transitioning from active duty to civilian life. 

That’s why today is so special — it’s a chance for Americans across the country to pause their daily routines and take a second to reflect upon the millions of Americans who have sacrificed everything to make those daily routines possible. 

We owe everything to them. 

Thank you for reading, 

Mike Gallagher