This Veterans Day, I challenge each of us to show our gratitude every day for the brave men and women who have served our country in the armed services. Let’s remember our hero veterans who live among us quietly going about their daily lives. They sacrificed everything to protect the beacon of freedom in the world, this beautiful country we call home.

Our armed forces shape everyday men and women into leaders. These brave individuals will always be changed from their experiences. Time and time again, they chose to serve their country, honor its values of freedom and share the hope of democracy with the world.

I am committed to ensuring that our state honors our veterans with its policies. There are a number of issues facing veterans today, and we must address them sooner rather than later. We must focus on the transitions back into civilian life for our heroes; we need programs to address post traumatic stress disorder, and policies to guarantee returning heroes have the ability to find jobs or build businesses right here in our communities.

I haven’t much more to share except for my profound gratitude and thankfulness for fellow veterans. If you would like to learn how New York is helping veterans, please visit the Division of Veterans’ Affairs website at www.veterans.ny.gov. As always, I welcome ideas and comments; please call me at 493-3909 or email me at blankenbushk@assembly.state.ny.us.