Thank you to all military veterans.

Every Nov. 11 is designated as the day we celebrate and honor U.S. military veterans for their patriotism, love of country, and willingness to serve during war and peace time. I urge you to take time to honor our military veterans and their families.

I want to express my gratitude, thanks, and appreciation for the many sacrifices our servicemembers make daily to protect our nation at home and abroad. Putting their lives both on hold and on the line for the sake of our safety is something we can all be grateful for this Veterans Day. Many have also paid a high price in their service, suffering physical and psychological wounds or both. They have endured lengthy periods away from their families and friends. Our veterans are parents, children, grandparents, siblings, friends, and neighbors and are an important part of our community.

Anyone who would like to assist our veterans please contact your local Michigan Veterans Affairs Service Department. And if you are a veteran and you need to talk to someone today or any day, please call 988, press 1, or text 838255, or visit michigan.gov/mvaa.

To our people in uniform, past, present, and future, thank you for defending our nation.

LORA E. GREENE,

Alpena