Public encouraged to attend Veterans Day ceremonies
The signers of the Declaration of Independence on July 4, 1776, declared in part, "we mutually pledge to each other our lives, our fortunes, and our sacred honor," thereby setting in motion the establishment of the greatest republic known to man.

Those long ago written words well describe the men and women who have served and are currently serving in the U.S. Armed Forces. They truly represent the primary definition of the word veteran.

From the battlefields of the Revolutionary War to Operation Iraqi Freedom and Operation Enduring Freedom, America's men and women have always stepped forward to protect and defend the ideals upon which the United States was founded. They have willingly sacrificed much - with many giving their very lives - so that we might continue to enjoy our many freedoms.

On Nov. 11, Veterans Day, many of our American Legion Posts will conduct ceremonies to honor America's veterans and I encourage everyone to attend such an event as a visible way of saying thank you to those who have served and to those serving today.

Frank M. Calandrillo Jr.

State Commander New Jersey American Legion

Trenton