Every Nov. 11, they come together at parades, assemblies, prayer services, and memorial ceremonies. They are old and young. They are men and women. Their skin is different colors and their backgrounds vary. Yet they share a bond that transcends their differences. They are veterans.

On this day, some will recall how their first crew cut felt—back when they still had hair. Others will remember the unrelenting drill sergeant from basic training or the first time they soloed in a B-17. 

These veterans will laugh and joke and recall the good times—the shore leaves, the crazy things they did to amuse one another when there was a lull. Others will catch up with lifelong friends they made while in the service.

Then they’ll recall the difficult times. The older veterans will remember the bitterly cold winter nights they spent in the Ardennes during the Battle of the Bulge or how the sun looked rising over the top of Heartbreak Ridge in Korea. The younger vets will recall the Tet Offensive in Vietnam or the unrelenting heat, wind, and sand they endured during Operation Desert Storm in the Persian Gulf.

Some will recall how they felt when they came home from “their” war. Many will pay tribute to someone they served alongside who paid the ultimate price.

On Veterans Day, let us seek out our nation’s veterans and listen to what they have to say. Let us remember the many freedoms that we enjoy are gifts—gifts that were given to us by our nation’s veterans.

Let us remember the places where our nation’s veterans showed true grit and courage—places such as Iwo Jima, Chosin, and Khe Sanh. Let us remember those veterans who are still in harm’s way and say a prayer for their safe return.

But most of all, let us show our veterans the respect they are due. Let us turn to the fathers, brothers, mothers, and sisters who have served our nation and thank them and acknowledge their many sacrifices. For they are our veterans, and this is their day.

Please take a look at our first Veteran’s Day slide shows: WWI – Vietnam and post-Vietnam – Present. We’ve collected some of the most poignant, significant, memorable, stunning, and fun images we could find in honor of those who served and those who continue to serve to this day. There’s also a smattering of shots of MOAA staff members and family members of staffers.

Thank you to all our members and all veterans for their sacrifices. For you are our veterans, and this is your day.