As yesterday’s defenders of freedom, we proudly welcome today’s military service members and veterans into our ranks. For generations, America’s sons and daughters have answered our nation’s call, serving with courage and distinction in foreign wars, armed conflicts, combat operations, peacekeeping missions, and expeditionary campaigns throughout the world.

Our common bond was forged through service beyond our nation’s shores—from the World Wars, Korea, and Vietnam to the Persian Gulf, the Balkans, Iraq, Afghanistan, the Global War on Terrorism, and the many other overseas campaigns and operations in which American service members have stood in defense of freedom.

The names, places, uniforms, and missions may change, but the values that unite us remain steadfast: service, sacrifice, courage, loyalty, and devotion to country.

Every generation of veterans carries forward the legacy of those who came before them. Together, we honor our fallen, remember those who never returned home, support our fellow veterans and their families, and ensure that the sacrifices made in defense of our nation are never forgotten.

We served in different places, at different times, and under different circumstances—but we share a common bond.

We honor those who served before us.
We stand beside those who serve today.
And we proudly welcome the next generation of eligible veterans into our ranks.

Different generations. Different battlefields. One mission. One legacy.