Preparing to honor veterans of the United States Armed Forces on Monday couldn’t have come at a better time for our country. On the heels of a divisive presidential election – one which has left one side of the aisle jubilant and the other deflated – there is one thing we can all agree on: We wouldn’t enjoy the freedom to make such decisions without the service of the brave men and women who make up our country’s military, past and present.

As Veterans Day approaches, it’s a time for many of us to not just give thanks to our soldiers from all branches of the military, but also to reflect on the service of those closest to us. Most of us know someone who has served. Whether it is remembering the stories of service we were told growing up by a grandparent or other family member, memories of worry and anxiety over a brother or sister deployed overseas or the excitement of greeting a returning friend or family member coming back from a tour of duty, many of us have been touched personally by the service of veterans.

But, even for the few who don’t have a friend or family member who has served, or is currently serving, in the U.S. military, the actions of our veterans have had a direct effect on their lives. Whether we are fulfilling our duties as voters, debating the merits of new legislation or even protesting or picketing for a cause we believe in, none of these actions would be possible without the service of our enlisted military members. 

So, when Monday rolls around, remember: We aren’t just getting a day off work, school or other normal activities. We are celebrating our freedom. Moreover, we are celebrating the men and women who have provided that freedom. And it has come at a terrible cost. Let’s show them the honor and thanks they deserve on this Veterans Day.