We appreciate you and all your sacrifices. For those that don’t know, our Mission to Spread Smiles started from an experience I had while deployed as an Army Chinook pilot. We were fortunate to have a dog, Zac, attached to our unit who’s job was to bring joy and happiness. Seeing his impact is what inspired us to get Ellie, train her as a therapy dog, and attempt to have a similar impact in our local community. This has been an incredible journey and we’re grateful that Emma has joined as a therapy dog too. Here are some of our favorite moments visiting service members over the years.
On this Veterans Day, we pause to honor and celebrate the brave men and women who have served—and those who are currently serving—in the United States Armed Forces. Your dedication, sacrifice, and commitment to protecting our freedoms do not go unnoticed. Whether on the battlefield, in peacekeeping missions, or in support roles, each of you has played a vital part in safeguarding the values we hold dear as a nation.
Veterans Day is more than just a date on the calendar—it’s a time to reflect on the selflessness that comes with wearing the uniform. It’s a day to remember that freedom is not free. Behind every liberty we enjoy stands a soldier, sailor, airman, Marine, or Coast Guard member who has stood in harm’s way. These individuals have endured long deployments, time away from family, and unimaginable hardships so that we may live in peace and security.
To those who have served in past conflicts—World War II, Korea, Vietnam, the Gulf War, Iraq, Afghanistan, and many others—we offer our deepest gratitude. You paved the way for the freedoms we enjoy today and have inspired generations to follow your path. Your service laid the foundation for the strength and resilience of our armed forces. You are not forgotten, and your stories continue to inspire pride and patriotism across the country.
To those currently serving—whether stationed here at home or abroad—we see you, we thank you, and we support you. In times of uncertainty, you remain a source of strength. You are the face of courage and commitment in a constantly changing world. While you may not always be in the spotlight, your quiet determination and everyday heroism speak volumes.
Let us also recognize the families of our service members. Behind every veteran and every soldier is a network of loved ones who have made sacrifices too—mothers, fathers, spouses, children, and friends who support from afar, often silently carrying the weight of worry and longing. Your strength and resilience are a powerful testament to what it means to serve.
Veterans Day is not only about remembrance; it is also a call to action. Let us take the time to thank a veteran, support a military family, or learn about the experiences of those who’ve worn the uniform. Simple gestures—like a heartfelt thank you, attending a community event, or donating to veteran support organizations—can mean the world to those who’ve given so much.
Today and every day, may we never take for granted the freedoms we enjoy. May we always remember the cost at which they came. And may we continue to build a future that honors the sacrifices of our veterans and active-duty service members.
Happy Veterans Day. Thank you for your service, your courage, and your unwavering commitment to our nation. We are forever grateful.
