Veteran's Day

Bishop Richard B. Higgins, Archdiocesan Administrator and Vicar for Veterans Affairs of the Archdiocese for the Military Services issued the following statement for Veteran's Day, Nov. 11:

Today, we pay tribute to every man and woman who faithfully served in the noble causes of securing peace and freedom in the military service of our great Nation. Whether storming the beaches of Normandy, battling the brutal winters of Korea, enduring the steaming jungles of Vietnam, or securing order to distant and troubled lands in the Middle East, our American service members exemplify a true culture of generosity.

It is indeed right that we honor their contribution, whether in the simplest ceremony of laying a wreath on a grave or in the most grandiose ceremonies in our Nation’s battlefields and memorials. The same devoted spirit that drove our Patriotic ancestors to fight alongside General Washington and General Patton still rings true for those who fight alongside our current Generals in Iraq, Afghanistan and wherever American troops are deployed.

As I fly around this country visiting VA Medical Centers, my mind always turns to two men who served alongside our Korean and Vietnam veterans, Army Chaplain Captain Emil J. Kapaun, and Navy Chaplain Lieutenant Vincent R. Capodanno. These two Servants of God exemplified the best characteristics of true Christian generosity and compassion for their brother soldiers. In giving their lives in the service of God and Country, they lived the Gospel message of “laying down one’s life” for one’s friends and fellow soldiers.

To our courageous and honorable veterans, we thank you. The Archdiocese for the Military Services stands ready to serve your spiritual and pastoral needs wherever you find yourself in the journey of life. May God continue to bless you, your families, and this great Nation of ours.