Every Nov. 11, the United States pauses to recognize Veterans Day. It is a date rooted in history, marking the end of World War I when, in 1918, the fighting stopped on the eleventh hour of the eleventh day of the eleventh month. What began as Armistice Day, honoring those who served in that devastating war, became Veterans Day in 1954 after Congress responded to calls from veterans groups to recognize service members from all eras. Since then, Veterans Day has been a moment to honor those who wore the uniform and to reflect on what we owe them.
In New Hampshire, Veterans Day is not an afterthought. In Portsmouth, people gather at Griffin Park to lay a wreath at the Soldiers and Sailors Monument. At the New Hampshire State Veterans Cemetery in Boscawen, volunteers place more than 9,000 flags on veterans’ graves. Nashua holds a parade that draws the entire community. Merrimack is the site of Vetsfest, a community event that brings people together to thank those who served. Across the state, in towns large and small, schools hold assemblies and communities organize ceremonies. These are not just traditions; they are statements that service and sacrifice are respected throughout New Hampshire.
This day is personal for many families. In mine, patriotism was always present. My grandfather enlisted in the Army at 16, exaggerating his age to serve. He fought in World War II. He spoke very little about his service, but as he got older, we learned more about what he brought home. Stories like his are everywhere. Millions of American families have seen a loved one leave home, take the oath, and serve. These men and women were willing to risk everything for our country and for one another.
Honoring veterans has to mean more than one day or a few words. It means keeping our word. Every veteran deserves quality health care, the retirement benefits they were promised, and real support as they move from military to civilian life. The reality is that we often do not meet those obligations. The Department of Veterans Affairs, along with groups like the New Hampshire Office of Veterans Services, American Legion, and Veterans of Foreign Wars, works to fill those gaps. Local organizations across New Hampshire, including Swim With a Mission, Veterans First, Liberty House, and Veterans Count, do their part as well. The need is bigger than what any one group can handle — it’s a team effort. If you can help, get involved with a veterans support group. Every bit helps.
Mental health care is where we continue to fall short. The numbers are stark. More than 6,300 veterans died by suicide in 2022, according to the latest data from the Department of Veterans Affairs. The VA and others have increased outreach and crisis services, but many veterans still do not get the help they need. In New Hampshire, coalitions are working to connect veterans with resources, but there are still barriers and stigma. The country needs to make mental health care easy to access and fully funded. This is not just good policy. It is the right thing to do.
When Americans volunteer for the military, they do not ask about party or background. They stand and serve together. That is how they should be honored. Words are a start, but action is what matters. On Veterans Day — and every day — we are called to do more than say thank you. We need to keep our promises. Veterans have earned more than our gratitude. They have earned our respect and our commitment to stand by them, just as they stood by us.
