This Veterans Day, we extend our sincere thanks and express our heartfelt gratitude to our American heroes who have served honorably in the military, in both wartime and in peacetime. Our America would not be the great Nation it is today without our Veterans’ service and sacrifice. We honor and remember our Veterans, those who are still with us as well as those who have passed away. As a way to honor our Veterans today, take the time to learn more about our troops and what it means to be a Service member.
The Department of Defense’s website presents America’s military story in an impactful and engaging way. It’s packed with interesting videos, photos and articles ready for you to discover.
1. Know America’s Armed Forces
Army
The Army is the largest and oldest service in the U.S. military, providing the ground forces that protect the U.S.
Marine Corps
The Marine Corps is a component of the Department of the Navy. It maintains amphibious and ground units for contingency and combat operations.
Navy
On, above and below the water, the Navy is America’s forward-deployed force – and is a major deterrent to aggression around the world.
Air Force
The Air Force delivers a fast, flexible and lethal air and space capability that can deliver forces anywhere in the world within hours.
Coast Guard
The Coast Guard provides law and maritime safety enforcement, marine and environmental protection and military naval support. It operates as part of the Department of Homeland Security during peacetime, and under the Navy during wartime.
National Guard
The National Guard is made up of the Army National Guard and Air National Guard. They are reserve components of their services. The National Guard is a versatile force, supporting combat missions, domestic emergencies, humanitarian efforts, homeland security operations and more.
2. Meet Your Hometown Heroes
The Defense Visual Information Distribution Service’s (DVIDS) website has an interactive map that lets you find videos, photos and stories featuring troops from hometowns across the U.S. Nothing makes our Service members’ sacrifice feel more real than having a closer look at the men and women behind the uniform and learning their stories.
3. Visit a Veterans Day Regional Site Near You
The Veterans Day National Committee recognizes select Veterans Day observances throughout the country that represent fitting tributes to America’s heroes. Find a regional site near you. Alternatively, if these locations are too far, search your local newspaper or community website to find a local Veterans Day ceremony and/or parade near you.
To all our Veterans: Thank you for your service.