In 1938, Congress originally declared Nov. 11 as Armistice Day to recognize the end of the first World War. Changed to Veterans Day in 1954, this federal holiday is dedicated to pay tribute to our nation’s courageous armed forces, who put themselves in harm’s way to keep us free and to protect, with our allies, American security interests around the world.

All of us at The Heritage Foundation believe in the cause of freedom. As President Ronald Reagan said on the 40th Anniversary of D-Day in Normandy, France, "It is better to be here ready to protect the peace, than to take blind shelter across the sea, rushing to respond only after freedom is lost.”

Throughout history, and still today, brave men and women have stood at the front line to preserve our freedom. On this day and every day, we shall thank our service members for all that they do.

As we honor our veterans, I encourage you to commemorate the incredible sacrifices of the men and women in uniform. They have done so much throughout our history to protect and preserve our freedom, and continue to do so today.