In honor of Veterans Day, Colorado Democratic Party Chair Pat Waak released the following statement:
“Across the country, Americans are honoring our veterans and the sacrifices they have made for the cause of freedom and democracy. The brave men and women of our armed forces have created the strongest military in the world. They have sacrificed more than most of us can comprehend – leaving behind their family, friends and loved ones and putting themselves in harms way to defend this country and our allies.
“Today we salute their heroic contributions with ceremonies and celebrations, but are also reminded that we must follow these gestures with actions. Military service has been a constant in my family. My father was a World War II veteran. My husband and my brothers served this country in Viet Nam and in Europe. And my nephew is an Iraq war veteran.
“Our veterans have never wavered in their commitment to their country, and it is our duty as a nation to ensure that when they come back from battle, they are getting the care and support they have earned. Throughout the last year, President Obama and Secretary of Veterans Affairs Shinseki have worked to do just that.
“President Obama has called for the largest increase in funding for the Department of Veterans Affairs in the last 30 years while Secretary Shinseki has worked to create a more modern, effective and efficient VA.
“Though we have made progress, there is still much work to be done. While our servicemen and women are fighting for us, we must continue to fight for them – we must ensure that every Veteran gets the care, educational and economic opportunity they fought so hard to preserve.”