As we celebrate the 64th Annual Armed Forces Day remembrance, I would like to express my appreciation to the citizens of Mineral County for their patriotism

Navy Cadets march in the 2013 Armed Forces Day parade in Hawthorne. As usual, this year’s parade will begin at noon on Saturday, and will be surrounded by numerous events throughout the weekend.

Hawthorne Army Depot

As we celebrate the 64th Annual Armed Forces Day remembrance, I would like to express my appreciation to the citizens of Mineral County for their patriotism and support of the Armed Forces.  For me, this year’s theme, “Battle Born,” resonates strongly as our country is wrapping up a multi-front campaign.   Many achievements and freedoms we have as United States citizens have been born from the battles our country has fought.  In Nevada, this is particularly pertinent, as Nevada became a state eight days before election in 1864.  The statehood was pushed through quickly to help ensure President Lincoln’s election. This year will mark the 150th anniversary of this momentous occasion.

Armed Forces Day has developed into an enduring symbol of civic pride which annually renews a sense of duty within the community to steadfastly support our armed forces.  Over my 24 year career, selfless service is one of the values that has been ingrained deep within me.  It is a value that I hold most dear and one of a handful of core values which enables superior performance.  It was a sense of patriotism which compelled me to serve in the first place.  Armed Forces Day fosters patriotism and, as I see it, thereby inspires future generations of soldiers, sailors, airmen and marines to serve this great nation.

This year marks the 239th anniversary of the United States Army and the 41st year of an all-volunteer force since the draft ended in 1973.  The Army is the “Strength of the Nation” and soldiers are the strength of the Army.   Across the nation, it is the drive of selfless service and volunteerism, at the community level, which sets the example and develops these values in the next generation.  Therefore, community activities, like Armed Forces Day, directly sustain an all volunteer force and provide our nation’s strength.  Thanks to all of those in attendance this week and particularly to all of those who volunteered to maintain this annual tradition!