U.S. Rep. Steve Pearce issued this statement in honor of Veterans Day:
“Today, we honor and celebrate our nation’s veterans,” stated Pearce. “Our service heritage in New Mexico is profound – through the decades, our soldiers have so selflessly answered the call around the world. From Bataan to Operation Inherent Resolve, New Mexicans have served. They fought so we have the ability to live freely, and practice and hold dear the rights of our Constitution that are the envy of the world.”
“As a Vietnam veteran, my pride and appreciation grows each Veterans Day. Nationwide, Americans come together to show love and support for our current troops, and celebrate the achievements, the courage, and the lives of those who answered the call. When I returned home from Vietnam, my experience was not like the homecomings of the last decade. We were not celebrated or cheered, and having served was not an immediate source of pride. No longer the case, we must be resolved to never return to that shameful period.
“Of course, none of their successes would be possible without the support of a great community and a family at home. We must thank the loved ones of those who serve, for their sacrifices often go unrecognized. Our military families are the backbone of our armed forces, standing tall and proud while their loved ones face adversity head on. While the security of the nation rests on our soldiers, the families at home are keeping the country together with their own two hands. We must not forget that as we honor our veterans today; we must thank those around them as well.
“Our men and women in uniform exemplify the best of our nation, embodying valiance and bravery. Please thank our veterans today, remember those not with us, and pray for those still serving our nation overseas.”