Thank veterans

Nov. 11 is the one day each year when Americans are asked to pause and honor our veterans for their service to our great nation. Veterans Day gives everyone the chance to say thank you to the men and women who answered the call to duty and have fought to protect the freedoms and liberty we all enjoy today.

I have the privilege of thanking Army veterans for their selfless service through my role as a volunteer ambassador for the U.S. Army Freedom Team Salute program. The goal of this program is to honor the service of all Army veterans no matter when or for how long one served. You too, can honor Army veterans by visiting freedomteamsalute.com. Army veterans will receive an official U.S. Army Freedom Team Salute Commendation Package, which includes a certificate of appreciation and a personalized letter signed by the secretary and chief of staff of the Army; a customized U.S. Army lapel pin; and U.S. Army decals.

Freedom Team Salute has made a difference to me and to those Army veterans I have recognized. So, as you walk down the street, casually browse in the mall, or enjoy a night out on the town this Veterans Day, remember to say thank you to all veterans you see. You will be surprised how two simple words, "thank you," can mean the world to a veteran.

Paul E. Riley

Volunteer Ambassador, U.S. Army Freedom Team Salute Program