Veteran’s Day: a day where America dedicates time to appreciate those who have served and are serving for their country. There is so much hidden beneath the surface of this holiday. As a daughter and niece of men who fought in the Vietnam War and a granddaughter of a World War II veteran, November 11th has a very personal importance to me.

Sure, we all sat through American History for 3 years in school and took our tests on which war was when and who won. We pledge allegiance to the flag every morning because we know we’re supposed to. But what does this really mean?

It means that people have willingly gone overseas to fight for the freedom and safety of our country.  It means that millions of men and women go out to fight for what they believe in. We don’t just honor the ones that have died; we also remember the ones that have lived through it, too. Alive or not, they are all heroes in our hearts. Veterans Day isn’t a day just to mourn the ones who have been brave enough to sacrifice their lives in battle; it’s a day to celebrate the millions of people are out there serving for our amazing country.

My father, Al Chasar, was sent off to Vietnam shortly after he graduated high school at the age of 19. He served for 14 months and was thankfully able to come home safely, although his fellow Americans did not welcome him with open arms. The soldiers who fought in this war were spat on and called rude names because their services.

“I was only a kid when I was sent off with my brother,” recalled my father. “We didn’t know what we were getting ourselves into.”

Thankfully, in present day, we realize how important it is that we have men and women fighting for our country. Veterans are welcomed with lots of love from family, friends, and everyone around them.

“I’m sure that every soldier appreciates being recognized for what they’ve done, even if it’s only one day a year,” said my dad. “It reminds us that what we’ve been through is worth it.”

So I’m asking you, my fellow American citizens, to thank any veteran and current servicemen you may see not only today, but also in the future. Tell them how much their service matters to you. Say a prayer for those who have fallen for our nation, and for those who continue to rise.