On Veterans Day, honor those who served and focus on what unites us

As we salute all American veterans on this special day, we must not forget that freedom is not free. Veterans Day is a day to honor and respect those who have served and protected our great nation, and those who continue to help secure our future.  

As proud Americans, we need to stand united as one nation. Fact is, all of us stand on the shoulders of so many who have gone before and willingly put themselves in harm's way.

Whatever may momentarily divide us shrinks to insignificance when we consider what unites us. America is not just the geographical territory defined by two oceans and northern and southern borders. The nation is each of us together in our republic.  

When I was an active duty Marine, you often heard this sentiment: "There are no White Marines and no Black Marines. All Marines are green together." In case anyone believes this is weak-minded or overly sentimental, the saying continued, "But some Marines are darker green than others."