Veterans Day
On the Value of Service in a Time of Uncertainty
Veterans Day is a celebration of the brave men and women who have served in our military, while Memorial Day is a solemn reflection on those who never came back. Today, dear readers, is Veterans Day — a time to show appreciation for the people in your life who have worn the uniform of the United States Armed Forces.
Serving this country has been the greatest honor of my life and has shaped me into the person I am today. From my deployment in combat to my service on the National Security Council, my sense of duty to the United States of America has always guided my actions. The name of this publication, Why It Matters, is a reflection of that same commitment — my enduring loyalty to the Constitution that I affirmed during my congressional testimony in 2019:
“This is the country I have served and defended, that all of my brothers have served. And here, right matters.”
But Veterans Day should also be a time to reflect on what it means to serve in a country where military service itself has become politicized. The U.S. military draws from every corner of our society — every background, every faith, every race — and is the embodiment of our national motto, E Pluribus Unum — “Out of Many, One.” When we take our oaths and put on the uniform, we set aside individual interests and serve the United States of America.
For ten months, Secretary Hegseth has used his position at the Department of Defense to wage a culture war, purging so-called “woke ideology” from the ranks. In doing so, he has degraded our military readiness and undermined national security. Many veterans are now asking whether their service is still valued. To them, I say: yes — your service was, and remains, invaluable. Damn the culture warriors who attack one of our greatest strengths: the diversity and unity that make our armed forces exceptional.
This moment, too, will pass. And when it does, Hegseth’s tenure will be remembered as a failure — consigned to the dustbin of history. But your service, your sacrifice, and your commitment to this nation will always endure.
Too often, appreciation is offered only as a token gesture — a quick “thank you for your service.” While that’s always kind to hear, I ask you to consider something more meaningful. Make a pledge to show up at the next No Kings protest, or take the time to connect with a few people in your community and encourage them to vote. These acts are not small. They are deeply meaningful. They demonstrate your appreciation for veterans by advancing the very mission we swore to uphold — defending our democratic republic.
Happy Veterans Day,
Lt. Col. (Ret.) Alexander Vindman
I am remembering my father and two uncles that fought in World War Two.
Thank you sir and your brother for your service. 🇺🇲🇺🇲🇺🇲
Well said, LT. As a veteran, I really do appreciate what you've done to preserve and protect our Constitution, and you can bet I'll do everything I can to honor that service. I hope all Americans learn about our Constitution and how it keeps us free, and do what they can to preserve and protect it. That starts with voting in every election.