Veterans

In this edition of The Washington DC 100, we honor our nation’s veterans. We are especially grateful to President George W. Bush for the ways in which he continues to honor so many American heroes. His paintings of America’s war heroes are an inspiration to me, and I am so pleased to be able to share them with you on this important day.

I painted the men and women veterans in “Portraits of Courage” to honor their service and show my respect for their sacrifice and courage. I hope to draw attention to the challenges some face when they transition to civilian life – and the need for our country to better address them.

Over 15 years of war overseas produced a new generation of American veterans. As Veterans Day approaches, I want these heroes to know that as ranking member of the Veterans’ Affairs Committee, I’m holding Washington, D.C. accountable to the promises made to those who served.

Each year since the armistice ended World War I on the 11^th hour of the 11^th day of the 11^th month, we have rightly celebrated our veterans.

On this Veterans Day, we pause to honor the men and women who have worn the uniform of our great nation.

As we celebrate Veterans Day, it’s important to celebrate the service, sacrifice and exceptionalism of our nation’s 22 million veterans. For our nation’s wounded warriors, we are grateful for their sacrifice, resilience, and commitment to rehabilitation and recovery. Our wounded warriors – and their families – are inspirations to us all as they continue to serve, lead and contribute in many meaningful ways.

Veterans return home from their service looking for a new mission and a renewed sense of purpose. Since 2006, the Bob Woodruff Foundation has led the important charge in finding, funding and shaping innovative programs that help post-9/11 veterans and their families thrive during and after transition into the private sector.

Every day is Veterans Day to America’s oldest and largest war veterans’ organization, the 1.7 million-member Veterans of Foreign Wars of the U.S. and our Auxiliary.

As national commander of The American Legion, I am often asked what is the most appropriate way to thank a veteran. There are many ways to show your support for these heroes, but one of my favorite suggestions is to hire one.

Each year, more than 23,000 veterans choose to serve again through AmeriCorps and Senior Corps. These American heroes epitomize what it means to be servant leaders, giving generously of their time and energy to build a better nation.

Did you know women have served in military operations since the American Revolution, but weren’t officially recognized as servicemembers until World War I – 100 years ago?

Each year, more than 200,000 military service members leave active duty and enter the civilian workforce, and American businesses are finding real value in transitioning these veteran candidates into their organizations.

Over 20% of post-9/11 veterans suffer from post-traumatic stress disorder, a disability with severe symptoms of anxiety, depression, isolation and, worst of all, suicidal ideation.