Veterans Day evolves with time

The face of the modern veteran has changed. Once upon a time the traditional vision of soldiers from the different branches of the military was of statuesque white men.

Today, we know that dating back to the early days of our nation, Native Americans and African Americans were beginning to enter the armed forces to protect this country. As we approach Veterans Day next Friday, it’s important to include all definitions of the word in our minds.

Recent advancements in diversity have been made to the point where soldiers of all colors, genders, and sexual orientations are returning home with labels as U.S. veterans. But many people still have the vision of the typical WWII man coming home to his blushing bride.

In this day and age, we have our veterans from wars past, the new generation of military faces and everyone in between. Though Veterans Day is celebrated Nov. 11, there is an entire week until then to really consider the sacrifices made by the veterans themselves and the family that are closest to them.

The wars of today no longer require countrywide drafts, which means our newest soldiers shipping off are doing so of their own free will. This is all the more reason to honor them. Though there are rivalries between the different branches of the military, all of them serve a noble purpose that helps advance this nation.

Whether you agree or disagree with the policies set forth by the government, you must respect the bravery exhibited by these individuals willing to follow orders at all costs and risk their lives for what they believe is right and to keep us safe.

Since veterans are so diverse and so many, it’s hard to find a family that doesn’t include a veteran in their network.

Veterans Day is more than a day off work or school. It’s a day to truly honor those we love and respect.

To do this properly, friends and family members must give genuine thought to what would suit their veteran the best, whether it’s dinner or a card or just a kind word of encouragement.