Each year on Nov. 11, our nation pauses to honor the many men and women who have served in the United States Armed Forces. Veterans Day began as a day to reflect on the sacrifices and heroism of all who stepped up in service to our country, and it falls on Nov. 11 because this day is the anniversary of the singing of the Armistice that ended World War I.
One of the highlights of my job is meeting and working with so many of our wonderful veterans in south Alabama and all across this country. A few months ago, I found out a local Vietnam veteran named Charles Wilson had earned a Bronze Star more than 50 years ago, but had never received the award because of a clerical error.
Wilson grew up in Brewton and was sent overseas during the Vietnam War, where he played a major role in helping the Navy recover a Huey helicopter that had been damaged during combat. He and his crew successfully repaired the helicopter and brought it back for the Navy. After finding out about his story, I had the privilege of awarding him with the Bronze Star to recognize his valor.
Mobile was also home for Marine Corps Major General Jerome Gary Cooper, another Vietnam veteran who was the first African American to ever command a Marine Corps infantry company. Among his many accolades, he was awarded the Bronze Star and two Purple Hearts. In 1989, President George H. W. Bush appointed Major General Cooper as Assistant Secretary of the Air Force in Manpower & Reserve Affairs. He was later appointed by President Clinton as U.S. Ambassador to Jamaica.
Every single day, but especially on Veterans Day, we should tell the stories of the men and women who have stepped up to serve our nation in the Armed Forces. Without them, we would not have the many freedoms we all enjoy.
To our veterans and our active and reserve members of the Army, Marine Corps, Navy, Air Force, Space Force, and Coast Guard: Thank you! Our entire nation thanks you for your service, and we owe you a debt of gratitude.
Happy Veterans Day!
Jerry Carl represents Alabama’s First Congressional District. He lives in Mobile with his wife Tina.
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