Remembering

This weekend, at the eleventh minute, of the eleventh hour, on the eleventh day, of the eleventh month, we pause to honor those men and women who have served in the military in defense of our country.

Thank you for your sacrifices, for your selflessness, for your courage. It is because of you that my family and I have the freedoms and blessings we enjoy today, the same ones we so often take for granted. The time you gave is appreciated!

You are remembered on Veteran's Day.

One of the most stirring, beautiful sights in Washington, D.C. is the wreath laying ceremony at The Tomb of the Unkown Soldiers in Arlington National Cemetery. My students have had the opportunity to participate in this ceremony by actually laying the wreath after receiving instructions at the Tomb. I was moved to tears watching them perform this ceremony, honoring the soldiers buried there.

The soldiers assigned to guarding the Tomb have rigourous training and work guidelines as well, marching in extreme heat and cold and rain. 24 hours a day. Seven days a week. 365 days a year. They consider it an honor to be chosen for duty at the Tomb of the Unknowns.

Over 300,000 American men and women are buried at Arlington.

Take the time to remember a Veteran this weekend. Acknowledge his or her time in the military.

And if you know someone serving actively in the armed forces today, take the time to make a call or send a letter letting that person know that his or her service and sacrifice is appreciated.