Honoring our veterans

Nebraskans take great pride in service to our nation. Our state is home to more than 150,000 veterans, and we recognize and respect their contributions to our nation's security and freedom. Every Veterans Day we honor those who have served our nation in uniform, but this year I would like to make two requests.

First, to all the Veterans in the Third District: please share your story. My grandfather served in World War II and his story inspired me to give back to my community and ultimately move into public service. Since being elected to Congress and founding the Congressional Rural Veterans Caucus, I have had the opportunity to meet with thousands of veterans and my appreciation for their sacrifice only has increased.

Sharing your story likely will inspire others to serve in the military or in their community. It is important to share your experiences with loved ones and friends, but another way to ensure your story is remembered is by participating in the Library of Congress' Veterans History Project. Our veterans offer a unique and valuable window into our nation's history through their experiences serving our country. The Veterans History Project records these stories so they may become a part of our nation's historical record.

To learn more and to apply to participate in the Veterans History Project, please visit: http://www.loc.gov/vets/, or call my office for assistance.

My second request is for all Nebraskans to show their appreciation for our servicemen and women by participating in the Holiday Mail for Heroes Program. Every year, the American Red Cross delivers holiday cards to American military personnel, veterans, and their families across the country and around the world during the holidays. This tradition is a wonderful opportunity for families, schools, and other groups to show their support for our troops and our veterans. Once again, my district offices in Scottsbluff and Grand Island will serve as collection points for constituents to drop off cards until Monday, December 3, 2012.

For more information and guidelines for the Holiday Mail for Heroes Program, please visit my website at: http://adriansmith.house.gov/holiday-mail-heroes-program.

This Veterans Day, the best way to honor those who have defended our nation is to show our appreciation, and to learn more about their experiences. Our nation's heroes deserve this recognition and to be remembered for their sacrifice now and in the future.