Editorial: Show appreciation to those who serve in the military
Many veterans have sacrificed much to bring freedom to other nations around the world.
This editorial is the opinion of Gilroy Life
Veterans Day is a celebration of the men and women in the American military who have given much to keep our country safe from tyranny. Let us honor the people who served in the Armed Forces whose deeds protected the freedoms American citizens enjoy.
U.S. veterans carry the conviction of our democratic nation to every corner of the globe. They make the world a better place through their sacrifices in protecting the values and virtues of the American republic.
Gilroy residents care deeply about our military veterans from all branches of the Armed Forces. The list is long of local people who generously give of their time and talent to help veterans.
More than 100 residents, including retired members of the military, every year take a moment in their Nov. 11 morning to meet at the downtown Veterans Memorial and say a prayer and salute the flag in honor of men and women who served in military uniform.
Another way to honor our veterans is by participating in or sponsoring the annual Morgan Hill Veterans Run. It too place Sunday, Nov. 6 with more than 100 runners/walkers and several dogs raising thousands of dollars with all proceeds distributed among five local veterans organizations.
Nonprofit partner organizations that will receive funding from the run include Operation Freedom Paws, South Bay Blue Star Moms, DreamPower Horsemanship, Morgan Hill Freedom Fest, and RWB (Red, White, and Blue).
“Run with these honorable men and women during the race and express your appreciation for their service as you finish the course with them,” said the run’s founder, Charles Weston. “We encourage participants to take a moment and say, ‘Thank you for what you’ve done!’ Small gestures mean a lot to those who have sacrificed so much.”
The South Valley also brings back a favorite patriotic tradition when the South Santa Clara Valley Memorial District and the Gilroy Veterans Hall host the Veterans Day Parade through downtown Gilroy 1 p.m. Nov. 11
Community organizations, local businesses, schools and clubs will participate with musical units, color guards, marching units, vehicles, floats, and equestrian/animal units with a patriotic flavor as they pay tribute to our veterans. The 2022 parade theme is “Remember Everyone Deployed and All Who Served.” Military families have a tradition of wearing red on Fridays. The entire community is encouraged to wear red that day to show support.
Many veterans have sacrificed a lot — and even lost their lives — to bring freedom to other nations around the world.
Let us also remember that there are homeless veterans living in the South Valley. According to the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development, the current number in the nation is around 40,000.
The freedoms we as Americans enjoy, as well as many nations of the world enjoy, start with the individual who decides to put on the uniform and thus makes many personal and professional sacrifices. And let’s not forget their family members — especially spouses — who also make sacrifices to allow their loved ones to serve in the Armed Forces.
We are fortunate that so many men and women in our region gave from some of the best years of their lives in order for us to enjoy the quality of life we do. This Veterans Day consider your fellow citizens who make it possible to enjoy the benefits of a freedom-founded nation. Take a moment to thank them for their service.