A Proclamation on Veterans and Military Families Month, 2024

November marks a time of reflection, gratitude, and profound appreciation. It is a month dedicated not just to the brave men and women who have worn our nation’s uniform but also to the resilient families who stand beside them. National Veterans and Military Families Month, 2024, is a heartfelt tribute to the enduring commitment of those who have served and to the families whose quiet sacrifices make that service possible.

Veterans are more than just soldiers, sailors, airmen, Marines, and guardians. They are neighbors, mentors, community leaders, and friends. Their experiences forge an unbreakable bond with our country and our communities, bringing unique strengths to every facet of civilian life. From protecting our freedoms abroad to leading by example at home, veterans embody the highest ideals of courage, sacrifice, and honor.

For me, this month holds a very personal significance. My dad served in the Navy for over 20 years, and my brother served in the Marine Corps for over 16 years. My sister served in the Navy for over 4 years and is now a proud Navy spouse. My mom stood by my dad through all those years of active military service, providing unwavering support. As a military dependent myself, I fully understand the impact of having a parent deployed, the missed birthdays, and the holidays spent apart. I am deeply grateful to my spouse, who has suspended her own career to support me and our family. I also appreciate my two children, who have uprooted their lives and moved every 2-3 years without complaint, demonstrating incredible resilience and adaptability.

But behind every veteran, there is often a family—a family that has endured countless sleepless nights, adjusted to the demands of deployments, and offered unwavering support throughout every step of the military journey. These families are the backbone of our armed forces. They are spouses who keep households running smoothly when their loved ones are away, children who grow up understanding the meaning of sacrifice, and parents who watch with pride and trepidation as their children serve a cause greater than themselves.

This November, we pause to recognize that military families serve too. They may not wear a uniform, but they bear the weight of service in their hearts. Their contributions are immeasurable, and their sacrifices often go unheralded. They are the strength that allows our armed forces to function, the love that welcomes veterans home, and the resilience that inspires our nation.

As we honor our veterans and military families this month, let us not forget our responsibility to them. It’s not enough to offer words of thanks; we must provide the care, opportunities, and community they deserve. From healthcare to employment, from education to the support needed to transition back into civilian life, we owe our veterans and their families more than gratitude—we owe them our steadfast commitment.

To every veteran: thank you for your service. To every military family: thank you for your strength. This month, and every month, we honor your dedication, resilience, and love for our country.

May we always remember that the freedom we enjoy is secured by the sacrifices of both our veterans and their families. May we strive to build a country worthy of those sacrifices, a nation where their contributions are valued and their voices are heard.