Through World Wars I and II, through long and costly struggles against aggression in Korea and Vietnam, through conflict in the Persian Gulf, and in numerous peacekeeping and humanitarian missions, America's veterans living today have risked their lives and spilled their blood to keep faith with America's fundamental values of freedom, democracy, and human dignity. We owe an enormous debt of gratitude to these patriots, whose service and sacrifice have allowed us to raise our children in a country blessed with peace and prosperity and to shape a brighter future for peoples around the world.

On Veterans Day, we honor all those who have served in our Armed Forces and we remember with deep respect those who paid the ultimate price for our freedom. America's veterans have answered the highest calling of citizenship, and they continue to inspire us with the depth of their patriotism and the generosity of their service.

Let us, as Scottish Rite Freemasons, expand the significance of Veterans Day commemorations so that a grateful nation may pay appropriate homage to the veterans of all its wars. Their courage and devotion to country have inspired generations of Americans to serve in the Armed Forces of the United States of America. In addition to our own appropriate ceremonies and private prayers, let us encourage and invite all citizens to join in observances of Veterans Day this year and always.