As a proud Vietnam veteran who is preparing for Veterans Day, I find it tragic that so many of my fellow Americans view Nov. 11 as just another day off work.

I lost friends in Vietnam, and I made a promise to their families that they would never, ever be forgotten. With wars on two fronts — and the VA workload topping one million claims — it’s time for all Americans to remember the true meaning of Veterans Day.

I hope everyone in our area will remember what Veterans Day is all about. Call one of our local VFW posts to take part in our ceremonies. And as we near the holidays, please keep our deployed troops and their families in your prayers. Send a care package or donate to a program that supports our troops and veterans.

Always remember those who have fought for your freedom!

Paul M. Johnson

U.S. Navy Retired

Veterans of Foreign Wars

of the United States of America

Department of Maryland

District 3 Commander

Barton