That statement should never be forgotten.

Freedom requires an immense amount of bravery, diligence, and commitment by every person in our country.

And there are thousands of men and women who are exhibiting that bravery, diligence, and commitment on a daily basis. And there are thousand of men and women who went before them who exhibited those characteristics.

Our active duty service members, and our first responders. These men and women put themselves in harms way on a daily basis to keep us safe, and free.

And I can only say thank you to them.

Our service members have spent countless days away from family. They have served in areas of this world where they might not make it back safe and sound. Thousands have come home with injuries both seen and unseen that they will have to deal with for the rest of their lives.

Thank you.

All of us have friends and family who are serving, or who have served. We will be seeing them at family gatherings over the next few weeks. I ask that with all of the hugs and handshakes that will be going on that you look each one in the eye and say, “Thank you for your service.”

That phrase seems so simple, but it is a very powerful statement of support to those who are keeping us free, and safe.

Thank you.