Veterans Day 11/11/11

50 years ago, President John F. Kennedy delivered his first and only inaugural address. President Kennedy will forever be remembered for this speech and especially for these words: "And so, my fellow Americans: ask not what your county can do for you - ask what you can do for your country." Today, as we honor the men and women who have worn, and currently wear America's uniform, I would like to echo JFK's sentiment, "ask what you can do for your country." I have often asked this same question to myself throughout my childhood, which has led me to my decision to serve in our nation's military. However, military service isn't the only way to answer JFK's call to service. The Peace Corps, an organization President Kennedy started, is another great way to serve our country. Understandably, many people I know are at a time in their lives where a drastic change like joining the military or Peace Corps is not plausible, so in spirit of Veterans Day, I've decided to write about a few organizations that help our nation's veterans and active duty service members.

Homes For Our Troops - This non-profit, non-partisan organization builds "specially adapted homes to our severely injured veterans at no cost" to the veterans we serve.

The Mission Continues - The Mission Continues is a non-profit organization started by Navy SEAL and Rhodes Scholar Eric Greitens. Greitens, now a Lieutenant Commander in the SEAL reserves, started The Mission Continues with his combat pay and his two friend's disability pay. The Mission Continues goal is to "build an America where every returning veteran can serve again as a citizen leader, and where together we honor the fallen by living their value through service."

USO - "until every one comes home." The USO's mission is to lift the spirits of America's troops and their families.

Operation Shoebox - This organization sends care packages to those serving overseas to help raise their morale and let them know they are cared for.

Today I encourage you to take a moment to appreciate the service and security our country and veterans have provided, and take action to give back.