This Veterans Day, we will come together as a nation to say thank you to our veterans and to pay tribute to the many generations of heroes who sacrificed their tomorrows so that we may enjoy our freedoms today. Veterans Day is a day of reflection and remembrance, honoring those who have served and sacrificed for our country. As we in Southwest Michigan know all too well, freedom does not come without a price. Since last year, we have deeply felt the price of our freedom through the sacrifices made by so many of our own.
 
Today, let us take a moment to pay special tribute to those soldiers from our community who have made the ultimate sacrifice this past year:  Army Sergeant Daniel Frazier of Niles, Senior Airman James Hansen of Athens, and Sergeant Anthony Matteoni of Union City.  These young men were members of our community, following a selfless path that led them to the frontlines. We are all grateful for them, and it is with a heavy heart we remember their sacrifices and also the sacrifices of their families.
 
As we gather today at memorials and ceremonies, we are reminded that many of our loved ones are still fighting in Afghanistan, Iraq, and around the globe. The reminders are everywhere, as plain as an empty seat at the dinner table. We wish they were here with us today so that we could give our personal thanks. Our hearts and prayers are with them and their families, and we all look forward to their safe return home.
 
It is not difficult to see our community is blessed with the rich tradition of service and sacrifice. From generation to generation - they were a father or mother, sister or brother, son or daughter. They were our neighbors or classmates, our friends or colleagues, and when the nation needed them, they answered the call.
 
Thank you to all of our veterans from the bottom of our hearts. Freedom is alive and well because of your service. We are the land of the free because of our brave.