Kentucky’s military history runs deep within our culture and families. Even before our great Commonwealth became a state, Kentuckians embodied the boldness that service requires, stepping forward to defend and explore our young nation at a time of great uncertainty.
That boldness has continued throughout the years as brave Kentuckians have gone to the trenches on the Western Front, the beaches of France, the rugged terrain of Korea, the jungles of Vietnam, the desert sands of Iraq, and the mountains of Afghanistan. Even now we have Kentuckians spread across the world in service of their country.
Sen.John Schickel
Today, we honor over 330,000 Kentucky veterans who have served our country. We acknowledge the incredible sacrifices they have made and continue to make. We thank them for putting their lives on the line every day to protect this great nation and her citizens.
I and many of my colleagues work hard to ensure those who served are taken care of during their time of service, transitioning back to civilian life, and throughout their retirement.
Veterans Day was formerly known as Armistice Day, so named because at the 11th hour of the 11th day of the 11th month of 1918, the Armistice with Germany went into effect, ending the dominant hostilities of World War I. Next year is the 100th Anniversary of the end of the Great War, and I encourage everyone to participate in the World War One Centennial events that will be held around the Commonwealth on November 11 of 2018.
In the meantime, please remember the veterans who live and work in your own communities. Here in Boone County I think of men like Bob Collet and Bob Williams who were in the thick of it in World War II. Bob Williams is gone now, but Bob Collet is still with us, and there are many others like him who could use our help. There are many ways to give back to those who have given everything, whether by volunteering, providing a meal, or opening your home. Reach out to your local Veterans Affairs office to see how you can help.
I will continue to fight here in Frankfort for our veterans and all those who serve in the armed forces. I hope we in the General Assembly can continue to improve their lives before, during, and after their service. I would like to take this opportunity to thank every Kentucky veteran for his or her service. May God bless each one of you and may God bless America.
Sen. John Schickel (R-Union) can be reached at 502-564-8100, Ext. 617, or visit my LRC webpage to submit a message. He represents the 11th District in Boone County.
