Because all of us believe and understand in the fabric of the

O children of the future, hear the words of Steve Buyer, whose heart was bound to the well-being of those who serve and sacrifice for their nation. He once said, “Because all of us believe and understand in the fabric of the common bond of why we call ourselves American, it is to care for the men and women who wear the uniform; and when they take off the uniform, we care for them when they are veterans.” In these words, Buyer speaks to a deep truth that defines the essence of what it means to belong to a nation—a truth rooted not only in duty but in love and respect for those who serve to protect it. To be American is to be united in the shared understanding that those who fight for freedom are to be honored, cared for, and cherished, not only while they serve, but throughout their lives.

Consider, O children, the meaning of the common bond Buyer speaks of. It is not a bond forged by birth alone, nor by geography, but by a shared commitment to the ideals of freedom, justice, and sacrifice. To call oneself American is to recognize that we are all linked by something greater than individual desires or struggles—something that binds us together in a common purpose. That purpose, as Buyer reminds us, is to protect and care for those who bear the greatest burden of defending this nation. The uniform is not just a symbol of military service; it is a badge of honor and sacrifice, and those who wear it deserve more than just admiration; they deserve action and care when their service has ended.

Think, O children, of the ancient warriors whose devotion to their homeland was unwavering, whose bonds of brotherhood were stronger than any weapon. The Romans, for instance, recognized the sacrifice of their legionaries, offering them land and rewards for their service, ensuring that they were cared for after the battles had been fought. It was not enough for the Roman Empire to simply celebrate their victories on the battlefield; they understood that the strength of their empire lay in the care they gave to the very soldiers who protected it. The Romans understood the sacred duty to honor those who had fought for the state, and their actions stand as a reminder to all generations that the bond between a people and its defenders is eternal.

Similarly, look to the history of Greece, where warriors like Leonidas and his 300 Spartans gave their lives in defense of their homeland. After their death, their bravery and sacrifice were celebrated not just in words, but in lasting monuments—reminders that those who fight for their land are to be remembered and honored. Even though the Spartans did not live to see their victories, their legacy lived on, and their families, their city-state, and their people continued to honor them long after the battlefield was silent. These acts of reverence speak to the truth Buyer expresses—caring for the soldiers goes beyond the moment of service; it is a lifelong responsibility.

Buyer’s words teach us that the true spirit of being American is bound by this commitment to care for those who have served. It is not enough to simply admire their courage from afar; it is essential to act—to ensure that veterans are not left behind when they take off their uniforms. Just as a nation rises to honor its fallen heroes, so too must it rise to support those who return home. The cost of service is not merely counted in years of sacrifice, but in the lasting impact it has on those who have borne the weight of duty. Their wounds, both visible and invisible, are not to be ignored but cared for with the same dedication and respect that they showed on the battlefield.

Now, O children, the lesson is clear: to be part of a nation is to recognize the sacrifice of its defenders and to uphold the promise to care for them when their service ends. We must stand together, not only in celebration of freedom but in the commitment to support those who have ensured that it remains ours. To honor the veterans is to weave the fabric of our common bond with threads of gratitude and care, ensuring that every soldier, once their battle is over, receives the care and respect they so deeply deserve.

Therefore, I charge you, O seekers of wisdom, to carry Buyer’s call to your hearts. Honor the sacrifices of those who serve, both in the battlefield and in their quiet return to civilian life. Let the nation not only celebrate the victories of war but also care for the souls and bodies of those who fought in those wars. Advocate for those who have served, stand beside them, and ensure they are never forgotten or neglected. In doing so, you will uphold the true spirit of what it means to be American—to care for those who protect, honor, and defend the ideals that bind you together as a people.