Congressman Cohen Commemorates Veterans Day
Recognizes 100th anniversary of the end of combat in World War I
WASHINGTON – Congressman Steve Cohen released the following statement commemorating this year's Veterans Day:
"Each November, we pause to pay special tribute to the brave men and women who have served our country in uniform. This year, on Sunday, we also commemorate the 100th anniversary of the armistice that ended the brutality of World War I.
"America mobilized 4 million soldiers and support personnel in World War I, and 116,708 never returned home, including 231 from Shelby County. In Memphis, the Doughboy Statue on Veterans Plaza in Overton Park, erected in 1926, reminds us of their sacrifice.
"This week, the remains of Army Air Forces Second Lieutenant Martin F. O'Callaghan of Memphis, killed in February 1945 over what is now Slovenia, were laid to rest at the West Tennessee Veterans Cemetery after he was finally accounted for in April. His loss in World War II reminds us of others who have given the last full measure of devotion to this country on battlefields in Korea, Vietnam, Afghanistan, Iraq and elsewhere.
"As we honor all our veterans, we must also keep our promises to them with excellent care at our Department of Veterans Affairs medical facilities so they receive the timely, high-quality treatment they deserve. For those transitioning out of the armed services into civilian life, we need to assure them that good-paying jobs and educational opportunities are available. I am proud to work on legislation to ensure veterans receive the benefits they were promised.
"We have thousands of soldiers, sailors, airmen and Marines stationed all around the world. On this Veterans Day, we thank them for their sacrifice and valor and look forward to their safe returns home."
###