Veterans embody the value of respect America needs

America’s service members have represented our country’s values and led in their realization since the birth of our nation. Even in our hardest times, our military men and women have demonstrated that principles of honor, courage, and commitment are not convenient slogans, but a way of life worth living.

At this unique moment in our political and cultural history, there is yet another bedrock military value worth emulating: respect. These days, it is too easy for all of us—including, and perhaps especially, our political leaders—to disparage or demean others for differences or disagreements.

But as those who have worn our nation’s uniform can attest, respect for fellow service members—all our many differences aside—is necessary to accomplish the mission. Respect for our fellow citizens is necessary to maintain the fabric of civil and social life. And respect for the Constitution is necessary for the preservation of liberty.

Although that respect is missing in many ways in today’s political climate and broader culture, it is not gone. And it won’t ever be completely gone while we still have men and women who choose to live a difficult life by wearing a uniform for their country.

Thank you to our nation’s service members for leading the way—once again—in preserving the values necessary for our way of life. And from all of us at the Goldwater Institute, Happy Veterans Day.

Read about work the Goldwater Institute has done on veterans’ care here.