Friend,

Today is a special day for the nation. Veterans day is our chance to pay homage to every member of our armed forces, for the hardships they endured, the missions they accomplished, and to those who didn’t make it home.

My father served in the United States Navy in the 1950s and taught me the importance of selfless service. Everyday our neighbors, family members and friends put their lives on the line to defend our country and protect our interests abroad. They’ve earned our full recognition, appreciation and support.

Something I feel very strongly about is our current level of veteran benefits -- we must increase funding for the Veterans Association, guarantee healthcare for veterans and their families, and build new programs to help our veterans adjust to life after the military.

On this Veterans Day, I ask that you reflect on everything our troops have done to make our freedom possible -- we must treat them with dignity and respect for everything they have sacrificed.

To those of you who’ve served our country in the armed forces, thank you. If you have a family member or friend who has served, please give them my gratitude.

God bless our troops and God bless the United States of America.

-Eddie