This, of course, is just the tip of the iceberg. Most of our 25 million veterans have not been famous. And unlike the amazing 442 nd Regimental Combat Team, the vast majority of vets were not right there on the front line either. But Senator Dan Inouye, who was , has told me it is our whole team concept that makes the United States Armed Forces the very best in the world. On the battlefield, direct combat skills often even out.
Every country has tough, determined fighters.
What makes our Army, Navy, Air Force, Marine Corps and Coast Guard so extraordinary is our depth. That depth depends on many Americans doing their job who don t necessarily receive a lot of recognition, but who must be exceptionally competent and conscientious. That includes Active Duty, Reserve, and National Guard. That sense of teamwork, of striving for excellence in every area, and of doing your job well to not let your team down, is what makes our nation great in war and in peace. May we continue to respect and revere each of them for their contributions that still continue.