Dear Friends,
Every day across America, veterans from all walks of life continue their legacy of service—not in uniform, but through quiet acts of leadership and compassion in the communities they call home. As friends, neighbors, family members, or even strangers, these men and women leave a lasting imprint, reminding us that service to country doesn’t end when the uniform comes off—it simply takes on new forms.
Last Sunday, this sentiment was on full display. In Traverse City, Michigan, a man armed with a knife entered a Walmart and injured 11 innocent people. The violence could have been far worse were it not for the quick action of courageous bystanders like Marine Corps veteran Derrick Perry, whose bravery helped subdue the attacker. Thanks to Perry and others, the suspect was apprehended without a single shot fired. As Grand Traverse County Sheriff Michael Shea put it, “What they did was amazing.”
Veterans like Derrick Perry embody the selflessness and courage of military service, a calling to protect and uplift our communities that continues long after leaving the ranks. We owe them not just our gratitude, but our support.
July 25 marked National Hire a Veteran Day, a reminder of just one of the ways we can honor and empower our veterans. But our obligation doesn’t end there. Let’s each commit to doing more to recognize, support, and stand beside those who’ve given so much to protect our safety and defend our freedom.
Follow us on X, LinkedIn, Instagram, Facebook—and help spread the word by sharing our newsletter with friends, family, and veterans in your community. Together, we can keep America safe, strong, and free.
Signed,
Jeremy Hunt
Chairman, Veterans On Duty
