Take a Moment and Thank a Veteran

Veterans Day is this Tuesday. It's one of those days that always seems to bring about a debate over the current war in Iraq. Yet, the day is not necessarily about whether or not you agree with the war, but honoring those that served to protect your right to debate over that war.

Currently there are around 25 military veterans in the United States, of which 33 percent served in the Vietnam-era. Approximately 6 percent of veterans live in poverty and 6 million are disabled. While not all veterans are living in poverty, many are struggling financially. It is estimated that, of the one million veterans serving after the 9/11 attacks, 72,000 are paying more than half their incomes in rent. Still, other veterans are seeking treatment for depression, PTSD, and other psychological issues resulting from their time spent in service to the country.

It is a great sacrifice to serve in the military, and we cannot take for granted that there are those that are willing to fight to preserve our freedom and the freedom of others. Whether you agree with the current military policy in the U.S. or not, it is still important to honor those that protect our freedoms. This Veterans' Day, take some time to thank a veteran and to pray for their needs and blessings on their lives.