Senator George Runner
Serving the 17th District which incorporates portions of the Los Angeles, San Bernardino, Ventura and Kern counties.

America’s truest heroes and bravest citizens are the veterans of war.

They embody all that is noble about the spirit and the commitment it takes to march off to face battles that are worlds away.

Hundreds of millions of men and women have served in the U.S. military since our country’s first war for freedom more than 220 years ago. Millions have died, and still more have been badly injured while in the line of duty.

The communities that I represent have seen thousands of men and women commit their lives to serving in our Armed Forces.

Veterans Day on Nov. 11 is a salute to our heroes. This remembrance is the very least we can give to those who have sacrificed so much.

To the many veterans of Antelope Valley, Fillmore, Santa Paula, the San Fernando Valley, Santa Clarita, and the Victor Valley, I want to thank you for defending our great nation and for risking your life in the name of preserving liberty for all.

You are the patriots of this country. You are the gatekeepers of freedom.

America is known for defending the defenseless and liberating the oppressed. You have been our country’s instrument for extending peace, liberty and justice to other nations.

From the battle fields of Lexington to the beaches of Normandy, from the Siege of Khe Sanh to the urban battles in Iraq, veterans have always set a foundation of hope for our country’s future.

It’s not an accident that our country has met the military challenges of the world for more than 220 years – bravery and valor have run deep in the blood of Americans for generations.

Today, as I see the American flag flying at half staff, I remember that its colors represent the fearless courage and honor of our American veterans and the liberty and equality for which all have fought.

I will always respect them and never take their hard work for granted.

Veterans are an inspiration for all Americans, and it is important to remember them on this solemn day of tribute. I urge you to display, proudly, the American flag at your home and workplace on Nov. 12 to show appreciation and thanks for their unparalleled dedication to our country.

God bless our American war veterans, and God bless America.