George Herbert Walker Bush

“ Memory is the first measure of gratitude—those who are truly grateful do not forget the service that has been rendered for their sake. Each November we Americans remember in a special way the veterans of the United States Armed Forces. Through their vigilance, courage, and sacrifice, these individuals have helped to secure the freedoms that we so enjoy today—the freedoms that we can sometimes, all too easily, take for granted. ”

“ America's veterans have faced the hellish fires of combat and the chilling presence of mortal danger so that our children and our children's children might dwell in a safer, more peaceful world. The freedom of millions of people around the globe is, in many ways, a living monument to each of them.
Today thousands of veterans continue to serve our Nation through their families and their communities, helping others to appreciate more fully the value of freedom and the importance of patriotism. ”

“ There is no irony in the fact that we honor this country's war veterans on the anniversary of Armistice Day, a day dedicated to peace. As was the case during Operation Desert Storm, members of the U.S. military have engaged in armed conflict only as a last resort, only to defend freedom and the rule of law. And we know that these ideals form the only sure foundation for lasting peace among nations. ”