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My Pledge to Our Veterans: Honoring Sacrifice and Service

Table of contents, recognizing sacrifice and service, advocating for comprehensive support, volunteering and giving back, preserving stories and memories, supporting veteran-owned businesses, a lifelong commitment, in conclusion.

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• Civil Rights Violation
• Lyndon B. Johnson

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My pledge to our nation’s veterans

It is a great honor to be nominated by President-elect Joe Biden to serve as his secretary of Veterans Affairs . As I said at the announcement event in Wilmington earlier this month, I am deeply humbled by the trust and confidence the president-elect has placed in me. If confirmed by the Senate, I am eager to do my part in fulfilling what President-elect Biden accurately refers to as our country’s most sacred obligation: caring for our service members, veterans, their families, caregivers, and survivors.

At the event I reflected on veterans who inspired me growing up and during my time in government service: my Marine grandfather, my high school football coach who served in World War II, all the troops I met on visits to Afghanistan and Iraq, and the wounded warriors I visited at Walter Reed. Knowing these brave service members and learning about how they and their families navigated the return home, with all its struggles and challenges, joys and triumphs, will continue to inspire me.

I will also bring to the Department of Veterans Affairs a deep knowledge of government. As a former White House chief of staff to President Barack Obama, I had visibility into every single federal agency and department. I saw firsthand that when our government is at its best, it can serve its citizens well and help Americans solve their problems. But too often it doesn’t, and when that happens, it breeds distrust and resentment.

Supporting veterans runs in my family. My wife, Kari, is co-founder and president of Vets’ Community Connections, whose mission is to assist veterans, military, and their families in successfully integrating into their community by expanding their local networks and involving all parts of the community. I’ve been proud to support her in the important work she does every day to lift up veterans.

As I look forward to my own new leadership role serving veterans, President-elect Biden has made it clear what he wants me to do: “fight like hell for our veterans.” I’m ready to take on that fight.

Biden’s VA secretary pick promises to ‘fight like hell’ for veterans and their families

If confirmed, denis mcdonough would be only the second non-veteran to lead the department..

Our nation’s veterans know how badly this is needed. Long wars have taken their toll on our veterans and their families, and the physical and mental health care services available to veterans have not always kept up. Moreover, the dedicated men and women who work tirelessly to serve the department have been impeded by mismanagement, staff shortfalls, leadership gaps, and IT systems failures.

As secretary, I will work to rebuild trust and restore VA as the premier agency for ensuring our veterans overall well-being. VA will provide world-class health care to meet the specific needs of veterans, drive progress to eliminate veterans homelessness and bring down suicide rates, and create meaningful employment and educational opportunities. VA will welcome and serve all veterans, including women veterans, veterans of color, and LGBT veterans. Further, we will improve VA management and accountability. The agency charged with meeting the needs of veterans should not be limited by outdated tools and practices. Our veterans deserve the best we as a nation have to offer.

But as I have said before, taking care of our veterans is not the sole responsibility of VA. Every federal department and agency has a role to play — and as secretary, I will work across agencies to ensure that we deliver for our veterans at the level they deserve.

Finally, I know there are some who wonder if someone who did not serve in the military is qualified to be President-elect Biden’s nominee to lead VA. While I would argue that my skill set, deep knowledge of government, and executive experience have prepared me to serve the veteran community with the highest standards it deserves, I understand the basis for this criticism. Too often, at the VA and at other federal agencies, political appointees have lacked the perspective to adequately understand the needs of the communities they serve. I take that to heart, but with my experience and demonstrated commitment, I will do everything in my power to move heaven and earth to get the job done.

I can promise you this: I will carry with me the memories of all the service members and veterans who have touched my life. I will surround myself with a strong team, including veterans who will remind me every day — through their words, actions, and simple presence — of the community VA serves. And I will listen and be open to hearing from every veteran I encounter, so that I am consistently deepening my understanding of their evolving needs.

In Wilmington, I reflected on one of those veterans whose memory I will carry with me: my high school football coach growing up in Stillwater, Minnesota — Joe “Sam” Samuelson, who stormed the beaches of Normandy. I talked about how when he was in hospice at the end of his life, he and his family were grateful for the compassion of VA staff. When he passed, his wife gave me his coaching jacket — one of my most prized possessions.

During my tenure at VA, I hope that my own words, actions, and successes on behalf of the veteran community will earn your trust. I won’t rest until I ensure we are giving veterans the high standard of care and service worthy of their service to our country.

And in the coming years, I hope you will count me as one of those who have cared for “those who have borne the battle,” and their families, caregivers, and survivors.

Denis McDonough served as White House Chief of Staff, Deputy National Security Advisor, and Chief of Staff of the National Security Council under the Obama-Biden administration, where he helped lead the administration’s work on behalf of military families and veterans.

Editor’s note: This is an Op-Ed and as such, the opinions expressed are those of the author. If you would like to respond, or have an editorial of your own you would like to submit, please contact Military Times managing editor Howard Altman, [email protected] .

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My Pledge To Our Veterans Essay

Writing a short essay on “My Pledge to Our Veterans” is a meaningful task that allows you to express gratitude, acknowledge the sacrifices made by military veterans, and propose personal commitments or societal actions to support them. This type of essay should blend personal reflection with concrete commitments, making it both heartfelt and action-oriented.

Table of Contents

Introduction

Start your essay with a compelling introduction that sets the tone for the commitment and respect you wish to convey. You could begin with a personal story or anecdote that illustrates a direct connection to a veteran, or a general reflection on the importance of veterans in society. Introduce the concept of a pledge as a promise or a set of actions aimed at showing appreciation and providing support to veterans. End your introduction with a thesis statement that outlines what your pledge will cover and why it is important.

Understanding the Sacrifices

The first body paragraph should delve into the sacrifices veterans make for their country. Discuss the challenges faced by veterans, including those related to their physical, emotional, and psychological health. You can mention statistics or stories that highlight the difficulties veterans encounter during and after service, such as combat stress, injuries, or reintegration into civilian life. This section sets the stage for understanding why a pledge of support is necessary and meaningful.

My Personal Pledge

Broader societal actions.

Conclude your essay by summarizing the commitments you have outlined and reaffirming the importance of these pledges. Reflect on the impact that fulfilling these promises can have on the lives of veterans and on society as a whole. End with a call to action, encouraging others to make their own pledges or to participate in community efforts to support veterans. This not only reinforces your message but also spreads awareness and motivates action.

My Pledge To Our Veterans Essay Example #1

Our veterans have made tremendous sacrifices in service to our country, and it is our duty to honor and support them. As a citizen of this great nation, I am committed to doing my part to ensure that our veterans receive the care and support they deserve. In this essay, I will outline my pledge to our veterans by discussing three key ways in which we can support them: advocating for policies that address their unique needs and challenges, volunteering time or resources to organizations that assist them, and making a personal commitment to thank them for their service and sacrifice.

One way to honor veterans is by volunteering time or resources to organizations that assist them. There are countless organizations that are dedicated to providing support and resources to veterans and their families. These organizations rely on the generosity of volunteers and donors to carry out their mission. By volunteering your time or resources to these organizations, you can make a meaningful impact in the lives of our veterans. This can include volunteering at a local VA hospital or community center, making a donation to a veteran-focused nonprofit, or simply spreading awareness about the work these organizations are doing. By working together to support our veterans, we can ensure that they receive the care and resources they need to thrive.

Making a personal commitment to thank veterans for their service and sacrifice can have a meaningful impact on their well-being. Many veterans feel isolated and undervalued when they return home from service. By taking the time to express our gratitude and appreciation for their sacrifice, we can help combat these feelings of isolation and provide a sense of connection and belonging. This can include thanking veterans for their service in person, sending a letter or care package to a deployed service member, or participating in a community event that honors our veterans. By making a personal commitment to thank our veterans, we can help ensure that they feel valued and supported.

My Pledge To Our Veterans Essay Example #2

The brave men and women who have served in the military deserve our utmost respect and gratitude. These veterans have sacrificed so much to protect our freedoms and way of life, and it is our duty as citizens to ensure that they receive the support and care they need. In this essay, I will outline my pledge to our veterans and discuss why supporting them is so important. I will also offer some suggestions for ways in which we can all contribute to this important cause.

My pledge to veterans includes advocating for their needs and showing gratitude for their service. This means actively seeking out ways to support veterans and advocating for policies that benefit them. It also means expressing gratitude for their service and acknowledging the sacrifices they have made. Additionally, I pledge to support veteran-owned businesses and to encourage others to do the same. By doing these things, we can help ensure that veterans receive the support and care they need and deserve.

There are many ways in which we can support veterans. One of the most effective ways is to volunteer with organizations that assist veterans. These organizations provide a variety of services, including job training, counseling, and medical care. Another way to support veterans is to donate to veteran causes. There are many reputable organizations that provide critical support to veterans and their families, and even a small donation can make a big difference. Finally, advocating for policies that benefit veterans is another important way to support them. This can include advocating for better access to healthcare, education, and job opportunities.

My Pledge To Our Veterans Essay Example #3

One of the most important ways in which we can honor our veterans is by acknowledging their sacrifices and contributions to our country. These brave men and women have put their lives on the line to defend our freedoms, and it is our duty to ensure that they receive the recognition and appreciation they deserve. We can do this by attending veteran events, parades, and ceremonies and showing our gratitude in small but significant ways, such as thanking them for their service or buying them a cup of coffee. Even the smallest act of kindness can go a long way in showing our veterans that their sacrifices have not gone unnoticed.

Finally, it is important to advocate for policies and programs that benefit veterans and their families. This includes policies that provide financial and housing assistance, as well as programs that support the families of veterans. We can do this by supporting organizations that provide assistance to veterans and their families, writing letters to our elected officials, and advocating for policies that prioritize the needs of our veterans.

In conclusion, as citizens of this great nation, it is our responsibility to honor and support our veterans for their sacrifices. We can do this by acknowledging their contributions, providing them with access to healthcare, education, and employment opportunities, and advocating for policies and programs that benefit veterans and their families. By doing so, we can show our veterans that their sacrifices have not gone unnoticed and that we are grateful for their service to our country.

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About mr. greg.

VFW Post 2197

Patriot’s Pen 2022-23

The 2022-23 theme is:  “my pledge to our veterans.”, 2022-2023 official entry form, for more information.

Each year, nearly 68,800 students in grades 6-8 enter the VFW’s  Patriot’s Pen  youth essay contest for a chance to win their share of more than $1.4 million in state and national awards. Each first place state winner receives a minimum of $500 at the national level, and the national first place winner wins $5,000! 

The essay contest encourages young minds to examine America’s history, along with their own experiences in modern American society, by drafting a 300- to 400-word essay, expressing their views based on a patriotic theme chosen by the VFW Commander-in-Chief. Before submitting your essay,  read the rules and eligibility requirements , and  find your sponsoring VFW Post 2197 as applications must be turned in by  midnight, Oct. 31 .  Download and complete the 2022-2023 entry form here . 

About the past 2021-2022 winner …

Syed Ali, an eighth grade student from Lafayette, Louisiana, was named the 2021-2022  Patriot’s Pen  first place winner. His essay on the theme, “How Can I Be a Good American?” won him a $5,000 award. Syed was sponsored by New Iberia, Louisiana, VFW Post 1982.

Watch as Syed delivered his winning essay , during the VFW’s  virtual Parade of Winners  streamed live on Facebook, or see the  complete list of 2022 national winners .

Home — Essay Samples — Government & Politics — Veterans — Veterans Day: A Reflection on Honor and Sacrifice

Veterans Day: a Reflection on Honor and Sacrifice

• Categories: Veterans

About this sample

Words: 851 |

Published: Sep 7, 2023

Words: 851 | Pages: 2 | 5 min read

Table of contents

The historical evolution of veterans day, veterans day today, my personal experience of veterans day.

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PATRIOT PEN

2022-2023 "PATRIOT’S PEN” ESSAY Program

"My Pledge to Our Veterans"

All information pertaining to the theme, judging, eligibility, awards, and other aspects of this program are contained in the Veterans of Foreign Wars program booklet for the Patriot’s Pen Essay Program.  District Chairmen are responsible to ensure that their District programs are conducted within these rules and deadlines.   Make sure that you distribute copies of your program to all Posts in your District in enough time to ensure a successful competition.

The Patriot’s Pen Essay Program is a joint program with the VFW Auxiliary to the Veterans of Foreign Wars of Michigan.  The Auxiliary does not need the permission of a Post to participate in the Patriot’s Pen Essay Program.  Post and District Chairmen are expected to include their VFW Auxiliary counterparts in all activities concerning the conduct of local and District programs. Coordination of the District program is the sole responsibility of each District Chairman. Post Chairmen must refer to their District program for their District program requirements and deadline dates.  

  Judging the Contest

The suggested number of judges is five to nine (or a minimum of three).  Judges should be from outside your Posts/Auxiliaries and should represent your community.  Judges must not be connected in any way with the students in the competition.  Set the date for your judging and invite the judges at least 90 days in advance.  Remind them a week before the competition with a letter or email, and two days before with a phone call.

Eligibility

Sixth (6th), Seventh (7th) and Eighth (8th) grade students in public, private, parochial, and home schools in the State of Michigan.  Former first place winners at the State and National level competition or any foreign exchange student are not eligible.  Students do not have to be relatives of a member of the Veterans of Foreign Wars or its VFW Auxiliary to participate.  

Essays must be typed, or computer printed in English, between 300-400 words, on a single sheet of paper, with no added color or art.            

Posts 

To receive credit for participation in the Patriot’s Pen Essay Program, a Post MUST  SPONSOR THE PROGRAM IN THEIR COMMUNITY.  While it is important to offer the Patriot’s Pen Essay Program in our schools, it is not solely a program for the schools.  You may offer the competition to any sixth, seventh or eighth grade student.  Foreign exchange students are not eligible.  All entries MUST be submitted directly to the Post.  They may be sponsored through local schools, Boy Scouts, Girl Scouts, Church youth groups, Junior ROTC programs, etc.  The Post is encouraged to solicit participants from as many sources as possible.  

The Post will hold their own judging and may submit to District the number of students permitted by the following breakdown.  

• 1-15 student participants = 1 top Post entry is allowed to advance to District
• 16-30 student participants = 2 top Post entries are allowed to advance to District
• 31-45 student participants = 3 top Post entries are allowed to advance to District Etc.

 (Note: No Limit)

Posts may advance as many winners as they select based on the total number of students participating.  Post judging is the responsibility of the Post Chairman and must be conducted in accordance with the National Judging Criteria.   

The Post may forward each 1st place winning entry to District.  Each student entry submitted by a Post to District must be an equal 1st place winner.  This means each Post student entry sent to District must receive the same award.  For example, a Post has 55 student entries and is eligible to send four entries to District for judging.  These four entries must each receive an equal first place award from the Post. If the Post lists them as 1st, 2nd, 3rd, 4th place, then they can only send in one entry as the 1st place winner. 

  School/Youth Group  Competition Alternatives

We offer teachers/youth leaders the option to use the Voice of Democracy as a writing exercise.  The teacher/leader may submit all the entries to the Post for judging or conduct a judging within the group/class and advance a winner for every 15 participants.  Note: The Post Chairman should make this decision; working closely with the teacher or group leader.

School/Youth Group to Post

• 1-15 student participants =   1 top Post entry is allowed to advance to District
• 31-45 student participants = 3 top Post entries are allowed to advance to District Etc. 

  (Note: No Limit)

Each District shall be responsible for the conduct of the program and judging of entries within their District.  District Chairmen are expected to promote the expansion of the program by encouraging the participation of additional Posts.  It is not always possible to restrict sponsorship strictly along VFW District boundaries.  Posts may solicit student participation from any geographical area within the State of Michigan if they do not interfere with the sponsorship of other Posts.  District Chairmen are expected to assist Posts in the coordination of sponsorship of all schools in their District.  It is unacceptable that a school is not contacted.  

Each District may submit only one entry to the Department for judging.  This entry must be certified on the proper National Entry Form by the District Chairman to be the District First Place Winner of the District Program judging.  

The following items MUST accompany the District entry to Department for judging.  

• One student essay in accordance with the above rules.
• One completed student entry from the National Program booklet
• One good quality head and shoulder photograph. Wallet size.
• One signed student release form provided by Department.
• One State Biographical Questionnaire for the District Winner.

It is the responsibility of the District Chairman to ensure that all materials are included.  Any entry that does not include all materials may not be judged.

To obtain program credit the Post Chairman portion of the Student Entry Form must be completed and submitted to District with each Post entry.  The form must include the number of students participating from the school and the approximate cost for the program and awards for that school.  Proper credit cannot be given without this information.  District Chairmen are required to prepare and submit a consolidated report of Post participation within their District using the District Report Form and the District Summary Form.  These reports should accompany the District entry to Department.  

Deadline for Post sponsored program entries is October 31, 2022 .  Post judging may not be held before November 1, 2022 and must be completed in time to ensure that winning entries are delivered to the District Chairmen by November 16, 2022 . 

District judging may not be held before November 16, 2022 and must be completed in time to ensure that the winning entry with all required materials are delivered to the Department Director by December 16, 2022 . District judging is the responsibility of the District Chairman to be conducted in accordance with the National Judging Criteria.

The Department deadline for District entries is December 16, 2022 .  This deadline is ABSOLUTE, and it includes all paperwork.  Department judging will be closed and will be the responsibility of the Department Committee.  Be advised that the state judging will be attended only by the VFW Department Committee Members, VFW State Auxiliary Committee Members, and the State Judges. The Committee has the sole authority to disqualify from the Department judging any entry which is in violation of the rules as stated in the Department Program and the National Program booklet.   

It is the responsibility of the Post, District and Department adjutants to input the Patriotic Pen entries into the All-American Dashboard. This is to include all monetary values spent on this event. Failure to do so can cause the Post to show a Not Met in this category.

All Post and District awards are the responsibility of those organizations.

Department awards will be presented at the 2023 Department of Michigan Mid-Winter Conference.  District winners receiving Department awards will be invited to the Mid-Winter Conference and are expected to be present.  The sponsoring District must assume the cost of their winner’s transportation, meals, and lodging.  Department will provide each District winner with one banquet ticket.  Banquet tickets for family members and other guests are the sole responsibility of the District in cooperation with the sponsoring Post.  

• Patriot's Pen Student Entry Form
• Student Biographical Questionnaire
• School Release Form
• Patriot's Pen District Reporting Packet
• Patriot's Pen Score Sheet

Michael Martin, Director

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Holland MI 49423

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[email protected]

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