Today we honor the men and women of our United States military who have served.

What is a Veteran? "A Veteran - whether active-duty, retired, discharged or reserve, is someone who, at one point in his or her life, wrote a blank check made payable to the 'United States of America', for an amount of up to and including their life."

Many may pass through today, not knowing the men and women who fight for their freedom; for their rights and are still keeping the enemy at bay. Many may pass today like any other ordinary day. Many may pass today oblivious to what the cost actually is living the way they do. Americans should be thankful for their service.

It is important that veterans are remembered every day, as a daily act. Unfortunately, that is not the case except maybe on November 11th every year on Veterans Day. But as we soon will be entering another year the U.S.A soldiers died for, take a minute of your time to remember someone you may know who served with pride and dignity. Call a friend you know and tell them good job. Stop someone in the street wearing their uniform with still such patriotism regardless of our current climate and thank them for what they do. These men and women give up the American dream so we don't have too, without any complaints. Today is not about a certain war in history, it's not about a battle fought, it's not about statistics, it's not about who did what, it's not about hating the enemy. It's more than that.

You don't have to love war and chaos to care. War is their job it's not who they are.  Remember that men and women are still fighting; still winning; still giving their lives for the lives you live and many take for granted.  In the United States, an official wreath-laying ceremony is held each Veterans Day at the Tomb of the Unknowns in Arlington National Cemetery, while parades and other celebrations are held in states around the country.

At times confused with Memorial Day, many pass Veterans Day not realizing what this day actually means. What Veterans Day actually stands for. There is so much to be thankful for; one being our veterans. So honor the Warrior, not the War. Honor these heroes everyday, not just on November 11th.
We at the NCSO honor all those who have given so much. We thank you.

Sheriff Elmer Tanner