Monthly Column: Veterans Day- A Day of Honor, A Day to Honor

"Thank-A-Vet" Program Pays Tribute to Veterans Throughout Year

Veterans Day is observed each year on November 11th, marking the "eleventh hour of the eleventh day of the eleventh month" of 1918-the moment that signaled the end of World War I. On this day, we pause to honor all the men and women who have worn the uniform of the United States Armed Forces and answered the call to defend our Nation. America's rise to greatness was built on their service, and their stories remain woven into the fabric of our history.

Whether they served in times of war or peace, all veterans share a common bond: an unwavering belief in the cause of freedom. It is a belief so strong they were willing to give their lives, if necessary, in its defense. They are our parents, siblings, friends, coworkers, and neighbors. Here in Erie County, we are proud to be home to approximately 65,000 veterans-one of the largest concentrations of veterans in all of New York State. As Americans, it is our duty to honor and thank them for their service and sacrifice.

Each year, Erie County hosts several memorial services to pay tribute to these courageous men and women for their patriotism, love of country, and willingness to serve. I encourage all residents to take time this Veterans Day to attend a ceremony in your community, visit a memorial, or simply display an American flag outside your home as a visible gesture of gratitude.

At the Erie County Clerk's Office, we proudly honor our veterans 365 days a year through the "Thank-A-Vet" Discount Card Program. If you are a veteran who has not yet filed your honorable discharge papers and received your "Thank-A-Vet" card, I invite you to do so. More than 1,500 local businesses, both large and small, participate in the program-offering meaningful discounts on goods and services as a small way to thank those who have served. We continue to expand this list and encourage more business owners to join us in supporting our veteran community.

Filing discharge papers (DD-214) with the Erie County Clerk's Office safeguards this important document and allows veterans or their families to quickly and easily obtain free certified copies. The "Thank-A-Vet" photo ID card is issued at no charge, providing veterans with real savings-and offering local businesses the opportunity to serve those who served us while earning the loyalty of new and existing customers.

To obtain your complimentary "Thank-A-Vet" Discount Card, visit the Erie County Clerk's Office at 92 Franklin Street in Buffalo or our Clerk's Outreach Center at the Southgate Plaza in West Seneca, Monday through Friday from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Veterans and business owners can learn more about the program at erie.gov/clerk/thankavetor by calling 716-858-6787.

This Veterans Day, let us all take a moment to reflect on the sacrifices made by those who have defended our freedom and to honor their legacy-not just on November 11th, but every day of the year.