President Obama Honors Military Sacrifice on Veterans Day

On Veterans Day, President Obama delivered a tribute at Arlington National Cemetery, honoring the sacrifices of the nation's military personnel. As he weighs a decision to escalate the war in Afghanistan, the president called on Americans to remember the men and women who have served and protected the country. He emphasized that the military's dedication and determination are a testament to the values of the nation.

Key Takeaways:

• President Obama praised the determination and sacrifice of the nation's military personnel, stating that they have endured tour after tour in distant and difficult places.
• The president laid a wreath at the Tomb of the Unknowns and placed his hand over his heart as a lone bugler played "Taps" during a moment of reflection.
• Obama expressed gratitude to the fallen and their families, stating that there is no tribute or commemoration that can match the magnitude of their service and sacrifice.
• The president met with his war council in the Situation Room at the White House to discuss a new military strategy for Afghanistan and Pakistan, with a decision expected after his trip to Asia on November 19.
• Obama met with families of the dead at Fort Hood, Tex., praising their sacrifice and resolve, and calling upon the nation to remember the tens of thousands of troops who have served repeated tours in Iraq and Afghanistan.
• The president pledged that his administration would not forget the military veterans, stating that America will take care of its own.

Statistics:

• 13 active and retired soldiers died in the shooting massacre at Fort Hood, Tex.
• The nation's military personnel have endured tour after tour in distant and difficult places for the better part of a decade.
• Tens of thousands of troops have served repeated tours in Iraq and Afghanistan.

Sources:

• "President Obama Hailed the Sacrifice and Determination of the Nation's Military on Wednesday." The New York Times, 11 Sept. 2009
• "Obama Meets with Families of Ft. Hood Victims." CNN, 11 Nov. 2009
• "President Obama Speaks at Arlington National Cemetery." The Washington Post, 11 Nov. 2009