AREA STANDS PROUD OF ITS VETERANS, VETERANS ORGANIZATIONS

The region and the nation today celebrate Veterans Day, an observance of the numerous contributions made by men and women who served in the nation's military and helped preserve American liberty. Obviously, our appreciation of these individuals, who dedicated a portion of their lives to the defense of our freedoms, should not be confined to a single day. Still, the day represents a fitting honor and one that should renew in us a lasting gratitude for veterans.

According to Census Bureau numbers of 1990 and the Department of Veterans Affairs, there are more than 27 million veterans in the United States, including nearly 21 million who served the nation during a time of war. This represents a significant portion of Americans who assumed military service with the understanding their lives might be put on the line to defend a way of life we as a nation hold near and dear.

This area remains proud to have such an extensive and vigorous representation of veterans and veteran organizations. Not only did these individuals serve their country in the military, they continue to serve in organizations such as the American Legion, Veterans of Foreign Wars, Disabled American Veterans, the Vietnam Veterans group and the Pearl Harbor Survivors Association. Their work not only aims at civic betterment projects, it also specifically promotes Americanism and furthers our understanding of the price exacted for keeping this country free.

Adding to the observance of Veterans Day 1993 is a long overdue recognition in the nation's capital of the service of women in the nation's military. A statue dedicated today in Washington depicts three Vietnam War-era service women. Many women served with distinction in American conflicts, some paying the ultimate price. With the increasing role of women in the United States armed forces, this statue is important for America and makes this holiday truly special.

At a time when our military is standing down a bit in the aftermath of the Cold War, it bears remembering that the tide of world events can turn quickly. The restructuring of the nation's armed forces comes at a good time in the sense that America is at peace and reevaluation is in order during this lull. However, wholesale cuts in our readiness must be avoided. Veterans, those who know too well the work of preserving independence, are the first to agree with this.

On this day, we pay tribute to those who have fought for the United States, hoping to learn from their sacrifices lessons that will keep our nation strong and, hopefully, persuade other nations not to test that strength.