VETERANS DAY News:

U.S. Rep. Ben Ray Lujan of New Mexico’s Third District released the following statement in honor of Veterans Day and the men and women who have served in our nation’s armed forces.

“All across the country this weekend, communities will come together to celebrate Veterans Day, an opportunity to take time out of our busy schedules and pause to reflect on the sacrifices that our men and women in uniform have made to protect our freedom and ensure the safety of our great nation.

“We thank them for their extraordinary service and sacrifices that they and their families have made to defend our country.

“New Mexico has a long tradition of service during times of war. Generations of New Mexicans have answered the call to serve when they were needed most. In World War II, Navajo Code Talkers contributed to victory for the Allied forces. Most recently, Santa Fe native Sergeant Leroy Petry earned the Medal of Honor for his courageous actions in the face of great danger in Afghanistan.

“As we pay tribute to all that our veterans have done for a country that owes them a debt of gratitude, let us remember that while honoring them in words, we must do so in deeds as well. Telling their stories of sacrifice and valor will ensure that their enduring contributions will live on, but the true measure of how we honor our troops will be determined by how we treat the brave soldiers who have returned home and how we live up to our responsible to provide them the health care, educational opportunities, and ability to find a job that they deserve as our nation’s true heroes.

“Finally, let us remember the men and women who are currently serving in harm’s way and in locations across the globe. We keep them in our thoughts and prayers and hope for their safe return home soon.”