Senator Mike Bernskoetter
6th Senatorial District

For Immediate Release: 
Nov. 9, 2023

Capitol Building, Room 416
Jefferson City, MO 65101

Contact Matt Morris: 
573-751-2076

Remembering Their Sacrifice

It has been 114 years since the United States first honored Armistice Day. President Woodrow Wilson, upon proclaiming November 11 as Armistice Day following World War I, spoke about the pride Americans feel for those who served and died while in the armed forces. At the time, President Wilson was speaking to the great sacrifice made in winning the largest scale war our world had seen at the time. Today November 11, now known as Veterans Day, is the day we continue to show our appreciation for all of our nation’s veterans. 

I am extremely proud of the role Missourians have played in fighting for freedom. The Missouri Veterans Commission reports that Missouri is home to approximately 413,743 veterans, 12,000 active-duty service members and 23,000 National Guard and reserve members. There are three active military bases in the state, a number of businesses that provide goods and services to the armed services and a variety of organizations that exist solely to help soldiers, seamen, airmen and Marines. 

These men and women, those willing to sacrifice to the point of losing their own lives, are more than service members. They are coworkers, friends and business owners. They coach our kids and grandkids sports teams and volunteer for local philanthropic efforts. They are part of the very fabric that makes our communities great. Often, we have no idea that these people we see every day were members of the armed forces. That is why I am grateful this day exists on our calendars, a specific time to show our appreciation and demonstrate to these selfless individuals that we understand how their service is a foundational part of keeping our republic safe and free. 

I offer my personal thanks to every hero who has ever put on the uniform. God bless our troops who protect our great nation. 

Please feel free to contact my office at (573) 751-2076. For information about my committee assignments or sponsored legislation, please visit my official Missouri Senate website at senate.mo.gov/Bernskoetter.