One day is set aside every year to celebrate the men and women who have sacrificed their lives to serve our country. One single day out of 365 to give credit to those who spent months away from their spouses, brothers, sisters, children, and friends. One day out of 365 to honor those who spent their time fighting for our lives, their lives and our nation’s freedom and independence. Veterans should be celebrated and honored every single day of the year. Every day should be Veterans Day – I know I will never do anything in my life that will measure up to the sacrifices men and women around me have given to keep me and my Constitutional rights safe.

Today on this 2017 Veterans Day, I want the men and women around me who have served our country to know that their service is appreciated 365 days out of the year, not just on Nov. 11. I want them to know that they should receive free meals 365 days out of the year, not just on Nov. 11. They should receive hugs, handshakes, thank-you’s and words of appreciation 365 out of the year, not just Nov. 11. Veterans Day should be a day that is given to the men and women who have served our country every day of the year. Their service should be honored and appreciated every single day, and we should never forget that.

Betsy Anderson wrote an article for CNN titled, “Every day should be Veterans Day.” She wrote about her family and their involvement in the military. She also wrote about the lack of knowledge in Americans about when Veterans Day is and what it means. You can read more about her family and how fellow Americans can help a Veteran here.

Aside from veterans serving their country through the military, veterans continue to serve their country and fellow Americans even after their service. After natural disasters and tragedy, men and women that have served our country through the military and through any type of service-related work. Our veterans never stop serving their country and should never stop being recognized or honored. You can read an article from The American Legion and why they believe every day should be Veterans Day here.

This year on Veterans Day, thank those men and women who have served you directly and indirectly. But on Nov. 12, continue to serve those men and women who are serving because appreciating those around you is important. Going through life not recognizing the people who have given so much disconnects you from the world.

Thank you to the men and women who have given everything and more to allow me to write articles for Patriot Mobile. Thank you to the men and women who are continuing to serve me and allow me to continue my education and serve people around me. Your service will never be appreciated, honored or recognized enough. I will try my best to thank you every day for the rest of my life for everything you have done for the United States of America.