Veterans Day has been observed every year for nearly one hundred years.
But for those who’ve worn the uniform, every day is veterans day and showing your support doesn’t have to be reserved for a holiday.
Decked out in red, white and blue , adorned in pins, and in uniform, all coming together to say, thank you.
“If it not for the veteran, the sacrifices they’ve made, the ones that died as combatants in all the wars, our country would not be the country that we know today,” Jim Nelson, commander AMVETS Post 9 Bismarck.
But these veterans say this holiday shouldn’t be the exception.
“It’s important that we remember why we’re here as a country and we do that by honoring veterans all the time,” Nelson says
And no matter if they still wear the uniform, or years have passed since their service, their sacrifice should never be forgotten.
“Most every family, every family in North Dakota, is probably affected and has a veteran in their family,” Lt. Col. Davina French, U.S. Army says.
Sen. Heidi Heitkamp says veterans of all ages still face challenges like access to healthcare, affordable housing, and finding jobs.
But no matter their age, support from their community is vital.
“This is a day when hopefully, collectively, all across the country, people express their gratitude, but also recommit to doing everything that we can to make sure the promises that we made to veterans are actually honored,” Sen. Heidi Heitkamp, (D) North Dakota says.
And you probably don’t have to look far to find a veteran.
“North Dakota is one of those states that veterans are the backbone of this state,” Lt. Col. Davina French, U.S. Army says.
Supporting a veteran can be as simple as reaching out to the ones you already know.
“Just to say hi, to shake a hand, and to remember their service regardless if they’re young or old,” French says.
“Every day should be veterans day,” Nelson says.
And always remember those who have served.
North Dakota is home to more than 50,000 veterans.
Lt. Col. French says a great way to show your support for local veterans is volunteering at your local veterans organizations.
