Remarks by Director Squires for the USPTO Military Association Veterans Day Event

Remarks as written

John A. Squires, Under Secretary of Commerce for Intellectual Property and Director of the USPTO

USPTO Military Association Veterans Day Event

November 6, 2025

As a fellow USPTO colleague, it's my honor to be here today with those who have served in uniform. I, and everyone here at America's Innovation Agency, thank you.

In celebrating this Veterans Day, we pause to recognize your courage, your sacrifice, and the quiet strength that you brought to your service then and that you bring to our mission at the Agency now. Every day.

My family was a Navy family-my father served under Admiral McCain on a ship blockading Cuba during the missile crisis. My wife Mary Lou's father was Army-serving in American-occupied Japan during the Korean War. But whatever branch you served in, know that you are our heroes and that your service is forever appreciated.

This month, as we recognize Veterans Day, it's apt timing to observe that the USPTO was awarded two veteran-friendly designations. First, the agency was named a 2024 U.S. Veterans Magazine Top Veteran-Friendly Government Agency.

And second, the USPTO is one of only two federal agencies selected for the Military.com Top 25 Veteran Employers for 2025. Of special note, our very own USPTO Military Association was specifically mentioned in the write-up. Congratulations!

In closing, I note a connection with the military that the USPTO WOULD and COULD have with respect to our Alexandria campus.

Alexandria is where, none other than Orville Wright, flew from Fort Myer-a few miles to the north-to the Masonic Temple at the end of King Street. That flight demonstrated the viability of a radical new and patented technology-the airplane, of course. It also secured the first military airplane contract ever awarded by the U.S. government. How about that!

So again, I am proud to work alongside you. Thank you for your service.