Veterans Day is a time when we honor those who have bravely served this country and risked their lives for our freedom.

We are paying tribute to not only our veterans, but to those who did not live to be thanked as veterans, and to those whose fate is still undetermined — those missing in action.

Nov. 11 became a legal federal holiday in 1938, but it wasn’t until the aftermath of World War II and the Korean War that Veterans Day became a holiday dedicated to American veterans of all wars.

This American tradition continues to honor our past, and to commit to our future.

It is a time where people acknowledge the debt we owe to the men and women who took up arms with dignity, commitment and courage to protect our families and friends.

Veterans Day pays tribute to all American veterans who share a legacy of service that crosses generational lines and upholds values upon which our nation was founded — service to a cause greater than the self.

Freedom is the most precious gift we have. In order to pay tribute to those willing to fight for our freedom, we must teach other generations this most noble of endeavors and continue our yearly gratitude and appreciation on Veterans Day.

America has a sacred trust to care for those who defend her.

From those who participated at Normandy on D-Day to the brave men and women returning from Iraq and Afghanistan, it is important that on the 11th hour, of the 11th day, of the 11th month, that we pause to remember those who have served us by serving in the military.

Maureen Hathaway, Federal Way