Community Commentary: Remember those who selflessly served

Military victories throughout our history have shaped the world in which we live and are the keystone of every American freedom. Largely due to our military might, the citizens of the United States have been given the opportunity to create the greatest model of democracy in world history.

It is imperative that we as a country dedicate time to remember and celebrate those who have selflessly served our country. Without fail, these men and women in uniform have answered America’s call so that the rest of us could remain unscathed and free to pursue other interests. There should be no doubt in the minds of our guardians that their service is recognized and valued by those of us who live under their blanket of freedom.

The first American Armistice Day was declared Nov. 11, 1919, at the conclusion of World War I. In 1938, Congress made it a legal holiday. This day served as a national day for Americans to remember those brave souls who paid the ultimate sacrifice during World War I.

In 1954, the nation again demonstrated its admiration for the armed services by changing Armistice Day to Veterans Day in order to encompass all veterans, living and deceased, in the observance. This legislation was an acknowledgment that all veterans were facilitators of the protection which preserves the American dream.

All Americans should understand that the cost of freedom and liberty is borne by those servicemen and women sworn to protect our country and its interests. It is important for each of us to recognize the price of American sovereignty and the people who have paid for our opportunities with their lives. Without the service of those who came before us, today would not be possible.

Many of us have loved ones who have served, and some have lost their lives performing their duties. I myself have children who have served our country, and I am very passionate about the military personnel who put it on the line each day. To both the living and the departed veterans, I wish to extend my sincerest gratitude for all you have done in the name of liberty.

One of my heroes, President Abraham Lincoln, put it best:

“Honor to the Soldier, and Sailor everywhere, who bravely bears his country’s cause. Honor also to the citizen who cares for his brother in the field, and serves, as he best can, the same cause — honor to him, only less than to him, who braves, for the common good, the storms of heaven and the storms of battle.”

Please join my family and me this Veterans Day in honoring our many brave men and women who have fought in wars present and past. Because of their service, we are able to live in a country that embodies freedom, prosperity and constitutional rights.

JIM SILVA is an assemblyman covering the 67th Assembly District, which includes Huntington Beach.