Biden Honors Veterans Ahead of Last Veterans Day as Commander-in-Chief
In a poignant speech delivered on Monday at Arlington National Cemetery in Virginia, outgoing US President Joe Biden expressed deep gratitude to veterans for their unwavering commitment to the nation. This marked his last Veterans Day as commander-in-chief, an occasion that holds significant sentimental value for him.
At the wreath-laying ceremony at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier and the speech at the Memorial Amphitheater, attended by high-ranking government officials including Vice President Kamala Harris, Secretary of Defense Lloyd J. Austin III, and Air Force Gen. CQ Brown, Jr., Biden acknowledged the critical role that veterans have played in shaping America's history.
Inspired by Abraham Lincoln's Second Inaugural Address delivered on March 4, 1865, Biden echoed the president's words from over 150 years ago, calling for the nation to "bind up the nation's wounds" and care for those who have borne the battle. This sentiment is particularly relevant in today's context as Americans strive to support veterans and their families.
Biden noted that supporting veterans and their families is not a partisan issue, emphasizing that they deserve comprehensive assistance across all areas of need. He praised Congress for passing legislation aimed at addressing pressing concerns such as exposure to toxic substances, veteran homelessness, and education and workforce opportunities for those who have served.
Furthermore, under the Promise to Address Comprehensive Toxics Act (PACT Act), the Department of Veterans Affairs will expand cancer coverage to include all veterans who served at the Karshi-Khanabad Air Base in Uzbekistan. Biden announced that this rule will be finalized before his term ends.
In his address, Biden highlighted the unwavering dedication and selflessness exhibited by America's veterans, citing their presence in various professions such as educators, firefighters, law enforcement officers, and entrepreneurs. He urged the nation to follow the model of unity and respect shown by our soldiers, putting aside differences to work collectively towards a common goal.
"The world is dependent on each you and all of us, to keep honouring those who have borne the battle," Biden emphasized, calling for Americans to strive for healing their nation's wounds and perfecting the union. "This is the moment to come together as a nation, to keep faith in each other," he concluded his speech.
As President Biden steps down on Wednesday, his final Veterans Day address encapsulates the enduring spirit of gratitude and appreciation that defines this special day.