Because of the tremendous contribution by American veterans to defend our land.
Because of men and women who donned their country's uniform, left jobs, homes, and families, and placed themselves in harm's way.
Because of those who stood up for their beliefs.
Because of those who wanted a better life for their descendants.
Because of those who marched wearily.
Because of those bending under soggy packs.
Because of those slogging ankle-deep, covered with sludge and mud.
Because of those child by wind and rain.
Because of those taking cover in murky foxholes.
Because of those who eat from tin cans.
Because of those who had no showers.
Because of those with no toilet-paper.
Because of those with bloodshot eyes from lack of sleep.
Because of prisoners of war.
Because of peace paid for with courage.
Because of those who gave everything they could give.
Because of those who watched their friends fall.
Because of mothers, fathers, brothers, sisters, and children who feel an aching loss.
Becaue of medals that shine upon chests.
Because of Revelotionary War, Cival War, WWI, WWII, Korean War, Vietnam, Desert Storm, Persian Gulf War, Enduring Freedom , invasion of Grenada, Panama invasion, involvement in Somalia & Haiti, peacekeeping missions over Iraq, and all other peacetime service.
Because of a nation that exists because of veterans.
Because of faith through hardship.
Because of rare freedoms.
Because of freedom to speak.
Because of freedom of religion.
Because veterans have given us the freedom to celebrate.