To the families of the courageous men and women who served in the United States military: These veterans; our treasure in earthen vessels, these soldiers left a strong foundation for which we can stand. We pause to remember that they paid the ultimate price to protect our freedoms of this country, our community and our families. Members of the armed forces served in defense of our nation, guarded our borders and protected our airwaves, that we might have a sense of safety and security.