President Shaffer Honors America’s Military at the Capitol Today

Monday, January 23 2012

“We can never forget, nor can we ever repay, their service to our country.”

DENVER—Today, Senate President Brandon Shaffer (D-Longmont) gave a speech in honor of the country’s courageous men and women serving in our armed forces for Military Appreciation Day. President Shaffer is a Navy veteran who was twice decorated for his work as a Navigator and Anti-Submarine Warfare Officer aboard the U.S.S. Hewitt. The President’s speech today focused on the importance of our continued support and appreciation for the sacrifices made by American men and women in uniform.

The following are President Shaffer’s remarks delivered today:

MILITARY APPRECIATION DAY SPEECH

Today is Military Appreciation Day.  But every day should be Military Appreciation Day.

While we pause briefly once or twice each year to express our thanks to those who serve, the men and women in uniform think every day about the safety of our nation.

For many who fight to preserve the ideals that make America great, their commitment to service, and the burden they bear can stretch a lifetime.

Often these heroic men and women do not leave the ravages of conflict behind.   They bring home to America haunting images of the horror of war.  Their witness leaves an indelible mark upon them.

While we now have a name – post-traumatic syndrome—it is a human tragedy they have long endured, and it is one we have too long ignored.  We expect them to carry this burden, often alone and without support, and too often with tragic consequences.

Yet, it is not theirs to carry alone and may not be theirs to carry at all. For it was in response to our nation’s call to service they stepped up to do their duty.

We can never forget, nor can we ever repay, their service to our country.   In their time of need we must stand with them as they stood for us.

So today, let’s say thank you to all the veterans in the room and all the veterans in Colorado for their service.