Generations of patriots have dedicated themselves to the defense of the United States. On this Veterans Day, we honor our brave men and women, past and present, who have proudly served this great Nation. We should also take time to honor veterans’ families, because they too have served and sacrificed and deserve our thanks and admiration.

We celebrate Veterans Day on the anniversary of the peace agreement that ended World War I. On the 11th hour, of the 11th day of the 11th month in 1918, the battlefields of war-torn Europe finally fell silent as more than four years of unfathomable destruction came to an end.

Today, nearly 100 years later, we honor the unwavering commitment to our country by all who’ve proudly worn the service uniforms of our Nation, including the Soldiers and Airmen of the Ohio National Guard.

Ohio National Guard veterans are among the most talented, dedicated and innovative professionals in the world. They are a direct reflection of what’s best about our country. When they leave our ranks, they take with them the knowledge gained from earning academic degrees, certifications and mastering technical skills. Often, they use the skills they learned in the military to continue to serve their communities.

There are nearly 800,000 veterans living in Ohio, and communities throughout the state will hold special ceremonies and parades to honor them this week. Ohio National Guard Soldiers and Airmen will be among those walking parade routes and making Veterans Day speeches.

On this Veterans Day, we express our gratitude to the men and women whose service reflects the Nation’s best. They are an inspiration to current and future generations of military leaders.