Some of the most moving events I have had the privilege and honor of attending as your representative in Congress have been those associated with our nation’s veterans.

Specifically, what comes to mind are the Honor Flight events that take place throughout the year. It is an incredible honor to stand and welcome veterans from mid-Missouri who travel to Washington to visit their the numerous memorials dedicated to our men and women in uniform. I fully support this program because of what it means to our all of our veterans, and particularly World War II veterans who may be experiencing their only chance to see the memorials in Washington.  

With Veterans Day around the corner, let us remember those who made the ultimate sacrifice and recognize those who returned home in less than good health. Our wounded and disabled soldiers are national heroes who are faced with numerous challenges as a result of their selfless service to our country. These individuals serve as our greatest living examples of the extreme cost brave individuals have paid to protect our freedom. From Bunker Hill to Afghanistan, our veterans have returned home facing lives dramatically changed by their military experiences.

We can never fully thank or repay our veterans and their families  for their service and sacrifice. However, as neighbors, friends, relatives, and as Americans we can work hard everyday to show our veterans just how grateful we are. As a member of Congress, it is my duty to fight for our veterans with just as much passion and conviction as they did when fighting for us. Whether it’s improved benefits, a more efficient VA, or simply recognizing their service at every opportunity, I promise to never stop working to get our veterans the treatment they deserve.

This Veterans Day, and every day, please join me in thanking our heroes and their families for their service to this great nation. That small gesture can go a long way. And the most honorable in our society have certainly earned it. God bless our veterans and God bless the United States of America.