Veterans are Important to the Nation’s
Past, Present, and Future
The United States would not be the superpower nation it is today, upholding freedom of speech and the rights of every citizen for liberty and pursuit of happiness, without the challenges and tribulations our veterans have endured. When the world was in turmoil with wars raging, fear plagued the minds of all, but our military stood strong and veterans risked everything to keep our nation safe. They fought and risked their lives for the very soil that connects us as a nation, even fighting battles in distant lands to keep this peace and prosperity worldwide. After all was done, our veterans came home to keep the freedoms of the United States alive and well, educating future generations regarding the history of our great nation.
Veterans have lived lives few have ever witnessed. Lives with stories, outcomes, and history that are vital for generations to learn about. However, this has not come without consequences. Many of our veterans face the battle of living with what they had to endure, and largely without our support. They battle with PTSD, anxiety disorders, and much more, still fighting even after the war was over. The stories veterans recant, help demonstrate an understanding of what our country fought for. The veterans kept the freedoms and rights of the people protected, even after their service. We need to increase the support of our veterans as the VFW does. With 11% of all homelessness in the United States being veterans, the majority of which suffer from PTSD and mental disorders, support for our veterans is needed. The VFW is veterans supporting other veterans and the community, giving service to the less fortunate, within and outside of this great country. Veterans and their sacrifices should always be reminders of what this nation stands for, to go above and beyond in the fight for the rights and freedoms of people around the world. We must do the same for our veterans, to go above and beyond to support their needs to live a peaceful life.
The stories my veteran grandfathers and uncles told me, were nothing short of heroic. The countless deployments sent on, the unfathomable perils faced, the triumphs accomplished, and the comrades and friends lost, were all done to protect me and my family. Selflessly risking everything to keep us all safe and free to pursue our dreams. The teachings, stories, and outreach from veterans are essential to forever spark others to join the military and continue the tradition our veterans started. Giving everything to make the world a better place, a safer place. Using the teachings of veterans to keep the freedom and rights of the citizens alive and well for generations to come.
Thank you, veterans. We are endlessly indebted to you for your service. The trials and tribulations you endured, and the teachings you share, will live on for generations to come. Generations you impacted, who will protect and serve the country, shaping our future for the better. You will never be forgotten and will forever be praised for your honorable service.
Conor Sean Fitzgerald – age 18.
Conor – competed in the 9th – 12th graders
- 2nd place at district VFW Post #3063