By: Will Willis, Northwest Region Service to the Armed Forces Director

Although Veterans Day may be viewed as just another holiday by some, it is a revered day for those who decided to put themselves in harm’s way by serving in a military branch of the Armed Forces.  

The state of Washington is home to over 517,000 veterans, 65,000 active-duty military members, 17,000 National Guard and Reserves members and an estimated two million family members. To each of them and their families, Veterans Day is a reminder of selfless service to our country. 

Less than one percent of Americans sign up to serve in the military, and we must not forget that freedom is not free; it comes with a cost. That cost is what our veterans and their families have freely given of themselves to ensure our way of life is not compromised. 

I am thankful we have men and women who have dedicated themselves to service and some continue to provide service after military life. There are many retired or separated military members continuing a life of service within the American Red Cross. 

The commitment to service by these veterans aligns with the seven fundamental principles of the American Red Cross: humanity, impartiality, neutrality, independence, voluntary service, unity and universality. 

I find it fascinating that the American Red Cross got its beginning because of war. Founder Clara Barton’s desire to provide relief on the battlefield during the Civil War was the catalyst to the American Red Cross being founded on May 21, 1881. By 1882, the U.S. ratified the Geneva Conventions – laws that, to this day, protect the war-wounded and civilians in conflict zones. This later resulted in a U.S. congressional charter, officially recognizing the American Red Cross services.

Lastly, I am humbled and grateful to have had the opportunity to serve in the U.S. Air Force (30-year retiree), and to continue a life of service within the American Red Cross.

My team and I get to serve the veterans, active-duty military members, National Guard and Reserve members and their families through the Service to the Armed Forces and International Services (SAF/IS). It is our pleasure to service our military members through the SAF/IS line of service and continue the legacy that Clara Barton started over 140 years ago.

Happy Veterans Day to my brothers and sisters who have served our great country; your service and sacrifice is not forgotten.