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Washington, D.C. -Today, Chairman Phil Roe, M.D. (R-Tenn.) released the following statement ahead of Veterans Day and the 100th Anniversary of the end of World War I:
"This Veterans Day coincides with the 100th Anniversary of the end of World War I. Though many years have passed since the 11th hour, of the 11th day, of the 11th month of 1918, the honor and respect we hold for the brave warriors of World War I has not dwindled.
"World War I marked the beginning of a new kind of warfare. Technological advancements produced deadlier weaponry, such as machine guns and the use of chemical warfare. This war also saw an increased usage of large vehicles - land, air, and sea. The collection of these novel elements of war born during World War I resulted in increased casualties and made war deadlier than ever before. The way our wars are fought 100 years after World War I may seem more advanced than those of 1918, but in many ways this war set the foundation of what war is today.
"I remain incredibly grateful for the courage and service of our World War I veterans. They embarked on a journey to defend Americans beyond our nation’s borders. Today, we must remember not just what these heroes achieved on behalf of our nation, but the selflessness they showed on behalf of other nations. World War I is a reminder that when we come together for the betterment of the world, we can accomplish great feats.
"While many things have changed over time, one thing can be certain regardless of the war, every warrior who fought for our nation deserves to be remembered. We are forever indebted to the courageous Marines, soldiers, sailors, airmen and coastguardsmen who have defended this country generation after generation. Many of these patriots gave the ultimate sacrifice, one that can never truly be repaid. These incredible Americans fought day and night all across the world. They have shed blood, sweat, and tears on the shores of Normandy, the mountains of Afghanistan, the jungles of Vietnam and beyond. Our nation’s men and women in uniform have stood up and answered the call to serve, exemplifying true selflessness.
“As the Chairman of the House Committee on Veterans’ Affairs, I have the great privilege of working to support our nation’s veterans. This Congress, we have seen immense bipartisan, bicameral support for these brave men and women. It is our mutual respect for our servicemembers that further enables us to work across the aisle in order to ensure our nation’s heroes receive nothing less than the support and services they deserve.”
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