The Daily Journal – Every day since the earliest days of our country, our servicemen and women have put their lives at stake for the greater good of our nation. In times of war and peace, our soldiers have remained ever vigilant, ready to combat any potential threats to freedom.

And while they have conducted this work out of duty, it should not be without thanks and praise.

It is important to remember the intent and purpose of Veterans Day as we honor and reflect upon the commitment and sacrifices of the men and women who have worn our nation’s military uniforms and helped make this country great.

Veterans Day was originally created to commemorate the ceasefire that effectively ended World War I, and which took hold at the eleventh hour of the eleventh day of the eleventh month in 1918. What began as “Armistice Day” has grown in meaning as a day to offer appreciation to all who have served our nation in each of its wars throughout history.

On this Veterans Day, we express our sincere gratitude for the service of the members of our armed forces and our National Guard, both in New Jersey and throughout the country. It is because of their hard work, dedication, and sacrifice that we are able to enjoy the security of freedom and liberty that we so often take for granted.

Through their vigilance and protection, our democracy stands strong today. We say to them — thank you.

Steve Sweeney

NJ Senate President

John Burzichelli, Assembly Deputy Speaker

Celeste M. Riley, Assemblywoman

Third Legislative District