Known as the war to end all wars, occurring on the eleventh hour of the eleventh day of the eleventh month [November 11, 1918], Veterans Day was created as a “celebration to honor America’s veterans for their patriotism, love of country, and willingness to serve and sacrifice for the common good” (U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs, n.d.). Today, we continue to honor our veteran’s’ sacrifices—specifically, at TSA, where we doubly honor our officers who have decided to continue their service as federal employees after or while serving in the armed forces.
While we can and should thank America’s veterans—our gratitude should not stop there, and we should not limit ourselves to just Veterans Day. As willing and able participants, we, or our local unions can volunteer time and effort to individual veterans or veteran organizations, such as U.S. Vets, Disabled American Veterans (DAV), United Service Organizations (USO), Wounded Warrior Project, Homes for Our Troops, Operation Gratitude, Hope for the Warriors, or any legitimate veteran organization in which you may decide to assist.
As part of honoring our TSA service men and women, Council 100 established the National Veterans Committee—created through the collective bargaining agreement—which is geared towards improving the lives of our veteran workforce and their families through their federal employment at TSA. We can also contribute financially through programs such as the Combined Federal Campaign (CFC) program or by donating funds directly to a particular veteran organization of your choice.
We honor our veterans who serve(d) in defense of the United States and its people. Their sacrifices are what make this the greatest and most honorable country in the world, and we live free because of their selflessness. While there are some helpful tools available to veterans, they do not fix all concerns our veterans face when they come home. So now it’s our turn to fight for them by advocating for their care by eradicating veteran homelessness, focusing on mental health and suicide prevention, improved VA services, and deserved employment opportunities. Finally, thank you to all who serve(d) our country!
With Gratitude,
AFGE Council 100