In honor of all who served in our nation’s military and continue to serve our country, we at United Spinal Association say thank you.
United Spinal Association was founded by World War II veterans with spinal cord injuries who came home to an inaccessible nation and made it their new mission to create a fully inclusive society.
“Veterans Day is about remembering and honoring those who have dedicated their lives to protecting our country,” says Christine Golden, Service Director, VetsFirst. “It’s recognizing all the struggles we have faced and the selfless attitude shown. I am a 14-year Army disabled veteran serving veterans and have worked for VetsFirst for 24 years. My desire to serve didn’t end with my military service — it continues today.”
Following are reflections on Veterans Day shared by United Spinal staff and board members. Let us know your own reflections by commenting on social media at @UnitedSpinal or emailing askus@unitedspinal.org.
Don’t Take Your Freedoms for Granted
Most of our veterans were still kids when they entered the military. They didn’t think twice about putting themselves on the front line to protect those who couldn’t defend themselves. And they never asked for anything in return. Commemorating Veterans Day is a small token of appreciation to all those who have sacrificed so much for me.
On Veterans Day, I reflect on whether I am taking full advantage of all the freedoms they gave me by making the most of every day. I don’t take a single freedom for granted, nor do I abuse my freedoms.
Matt Castelluccio, Vice President of Community Support
Each Veteran has a Story to Tell
Veterans Day holds a deep and personal meaning as a military spouse. It allows me to honor all veterans, reflect on the challenges and sacrifices of military life, and celebrate the strength and resilience of the military community. It’s a day to express appreciation, remember the fallen, and advocate for the well-being of all veterans and their families.
Each veteran is unique and has a story to tell, and each generation of veterans has a place of honor in our nation’s history. Veterans Day is about the journey of every American who has worn that uniform in service of the United States of America and the tremendous sacrifice they’ve made to keep our nation safe.
Lindsey Elliott, MSW, Senior Director of Community and Peer Support
The Unwavering Fight for Justice
Veterans Day symbolizes freedom, perseverance, and the unwavering pursuit of fighting for justice. This holiday is important to me because it honors the brave men and women who sacrificed more than we’ll ever know.
Afsar Shamsi, Member, Board of Directors and Senior Manager, Wellcare
Honor, Tradition and Family
Being in a military family means understanding the importance of honor, courage, duty, tradition, and family. I am proud of our veterans this day and every day for their sacrifices to keep our nation safe and free.
My father served in the Marines, and my youngest is training on Parris Island to follow in his grandfather’s footsteps. My grandfather, a son of immigrants from Croatia, fought World War II battles in Italy, earning a Purple Heart. Altogether, a member of my family has served in every branch of the military, and I do my best to live up to the values they instilled in me.
Josie Byzek, Communications and Digital Experience Senior Director
Unity, Diversity and Security
Veterans Day unifies our country. People from diverse backgrounds come together to recognize and appreciate the freedoms and security they enjoy because of the sacrifices made not only by veterans but their loved ones as well.
Rebecca MacTaggart, Government Relations Manager
Appreciation for Our Way of Life
Veterans Day allows us to honor those who have fought and served for us to be able to live the kinds of lives we do today. As a kid, Veterans Day may seem like another school-closed holiday. As we get older, we can appreciate what it means and why it’s so important to who we are as a country.
Scott Lavery, Development Manager
All the Peace and Happiness Your Heart can Hold
I need all of you wonderful veterans to know how important you are to people. I come from a military family. You’ve given so much to the American people, putting your lives on the line. There are no words to truly articulate how much I appreciate your protection of this country. Thank you for your service, I wish you all the peace and happiness that your heart can hold!
Keaston White, Board Member and Attorney-Advisor at Office of the Solicitor the United States Department of Interior
We Should Celebrate Our Vets More Often
Veterans Day should be celebrated more than once a year. We should all come together more often to commemorate and give thanks to those who have served and sacrificed so much for our freedom.
Both of my grandfathers proudly served in the military. After hearing stories of their experiences in WWII and the Korean War, I feel that all of the men and women who bravely fought for our country through the years deserve to be recognized and celebrated. Our lives would not be the same without this bravery and sacrifice, which should never be forgotten.
Annie Streit, Grassroots Advocacy Manager
A Committment Most of Us Cannot Fathom
For me, Veterans Day is a day to remember all the men and women who served — and serve —our country and provide us with the freedom and safety many take for granted. I truly appreciate their sacrifice. It is a tough job, whether in peacetime or during war. They are often away from their families for an extended period and experience things that most of us can’t fathom.
Kleo J. King, Esq., Senior Director of Accessibility Operations & Counsel
Learn more about our VetsFirst program and our veteran founders. Join us by signing up for a free membership. To support our mission, donate here.
