Gerald R. Ford

“ None among us has done more to defend and preserve our freedom than the patriotic men and women who answered our country’s call to service and sacrifice, and who today bear the proud title of "veteran."
To provide an occasion for the expression in words of tribute and through appropriate ceremonies our esteem for and gratitude to these courageous, unselfish Americans, the Congress determined (5 U.S.C. 6103 (a) ) , that one day shall be set aside each year, as a national holiday, to honor our veterans. ”

“ I deem it most appropriate that in public ceremonies as well as in private thoughts and prayers we gratefully acknowledge the magnificent contribution of our veterans to an America that today remains free and, with the help of God, at peace. ”