A retired Sergeant Major in the U.S. Army says as a grateful nation, it’s our duty to stand by veterans and their families just as they stood for us. Robert Reedy now lives in Ankeny after a thirty-one year military career including twenty-seven years of active service. He spoke at Monday’s Veterans Day Ceremony at Newton American Legion Post 111. 

“Among us there are heroes. You wouldn’t know it. You might be sitting next to one. Ordinary Americans who served when they were needed and responded in extraordinary ways. Some may still endure the cost of serving this great nation. We must honor our commitment to them by providing access to quality health care, education, employment opportunities, and other essential services.”

The retired Sergeant Major added that U.S. Military members are still spread all over the globe in harm’s way defending freedom and protecting democracy. He says they are being asked to do dangerous jobs in the defense and protection of our nation, and we owe them our support for what they have done and continue to do.