U.S. House Armed Services Committee Ranking Member Howard P. “Buck” McKeon today released the following statement calling attention to military families as the nation honors its heroes this Veteran’s Day:

“As America honors its military heroes from all wars this Veteran’s Day, we must also pay homage to the families and friends who support our brave warriors from here at home.

“The tragic events at Fort Hood last week reminded us that military families stoically maintain the light of freedom at home-while their loved ones serve in hostile environments around the globe-with little expected in return.

“Americans in uniform during World War II picked up the pieces after the disaster at Pearl Harbor and went on to defeat tyranny in Europe and the Pacific.  That victory was made possible by the ‘Arsenal of Democracy,’ created by Americans who stepped in to fill the manufacturing gaps left behind and propelled millions of tons of equipment and provisions to the frontlines.

“On Monday, the world celebrated the twentieth anniversary of the collapse of the Berlin Wall-an event that signaled the end of the Cold War between the United States and the Soviet Union.  Millions of men and women served during this decades-old conflict-many stationed in outposts in direct opposition to Communist oppression.  Those protecting the home front carried their share of burdens and responsibilities as well, working to propel an economic engine that would ultimately bankrupt the Soviet socialist experiment.

“From Korea to Vietnam, from Grenada to Bosnia, and from Iraq to Afghanistan, America’s veterans have honorably carried the torch of freedom to foreign shores.  Their selfless acts in situations where a majority of people would run away have sustained and secured our freedoms.

“This Veteran’s Day-as we honor our heroes both past and present-let us also take a moment to remember the military families who have, since the Revolutionary War, supported our military personnel.  Let us recommit ourselves to keeping faith with those who, with strength and courage, give away their husbands, wives, sons, daughters, fathers, and mothers to wear this nation’s cloth and defend our soil from all who intend to cause Americans harm. Let us not only remember and honor those in the fight, but those who wait with great patience for their return.”