Veterans Day 2025: A Time to Remember, Reflect, and Renew

In a powerful reflection, Colonel James Stokes reminds us that the spirit of Veterans Day lives in how we honor, support, and serve those who once stood watch over our freedom.

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Courtesy Photo - Colonel James E. Stokes (Ret)

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Veterans Day is a time for gratitude and recognition. It is not just a day off work or a chance for sales at stores; it is a solemn reminder of the dedication, bravery, and commitment of millions of men and women who have donned the uniform of our nation. These patriots have put their lives on the line to defend our freedoms, protect our way of life, and ensure that future generations can enjoy the liberties we often take for granted.

This day serves as a tribute to the sacrifices made by our veterans—some of whom have lost their lives, while others have faced physical and emotional scars that may never fully heal. Each story of service is unique, yet they are all bound by a common thread of honor and duty.

As we celebrate our veterans, we must also recognize those who continue to serve. Active-duty military personnel face challenges and uncertainties that many of us cannot comprehend. They are stationed far from home, often in hostile environments, and their families bear the weight of this sacrifice alongside them. It is our responsibility as a community to support them, not just on Veterans Day, but throughout the year.

In honoring our veterans, we also honor the ideals of courage, resilience, and selflessness that they embody. We must strive to carry these ideals into our everyday lives, fostering a spirit of service in our communities. Whether through volunteering, mentoring, or simply offering a kind word to a veteran, we can all play a part in acknowledging their contributions.

As we observe this special day, let us pledge to honor our veterans not just in words, but in actions that reflect our gratitude and respect. Together, we can create a culture that values service, embraces sacrifice, and supports our military families.

To all veterans, thank you for your service. Your courage inspires us all.

Veterans Day: A Time to Remember, Reflect, and Renew

By Colonel James Stokes (Ret)

Veterans Day is more than a date on the calendar. It is a living reminder of the courage, sacrifice, and enduring spirit of those who have worn the uniform of the United States Armed Forces.

Across every generation, brave men and women have stepped forward to defend the ideals of liberty and justice. They carried not only weapons, but the weight of our nation’s promise—the belief that freedom is worth protecting.

As we honor their service, we must also remember their families, whose quiet sacrifices often go unseen. Behind every salute stands a loved one who waited, prayed, and carried the home front with strength and grace.

True gratitude is more than ceremony. It is how we live, how we serve one another, and how we teach the next generation to value the freedoms preserved by those before us.

This Veterans Day, let us not only remember their service but renew our own commitment to building a nation worthy of their sacrifice.

Chronicle Placement Notes

• Section: Lifestyle & Inspiration

• Byline: Colonel James Stokes, U.S. Army (Ret.)

• Suggested intro blurb (for Chronicle website or print subhead):“In a powerful reflection, Colonel James Stokes reminds us that the spirit of Veterans Day lives in how we honor, support, and serve those who once stood watch over our freedom.”