Honoring our veterans
Veterans represent about 17 percent of the Smithsonian’s staff.
Growing up, Veterans Day was one of the most important days of the year for my family. My father served in Germany in World War II and every year he took me into town to see the parade, a gathering of men and women who gave so much for their country. Honoring them was not only about valor and victory; it also meant recognizing the burden they had carried for everyone’s freedoms.
Today, as the nation joins in celebrating this day that honors American veterans of all wars, I am proud of how much the Smithsonian does to recognize and support our veterans.
David Stone Martin, “Dorie Miller,” (1943), color photolithographic poster with halftone, 76.5 × 56.5cm. National Portrait Gallery, Smithsonian Institution, NPG.88.173.
Last year, we created the Smithsonian Institution Veterans’ Council, a group of 20 veterans from across the Institution, representing the four major branches of the Armed Forces. They advocate for the Smithsonian’s approximately 1,000 veterans, about 17 percent of our workforce, to address the concerns, rights, and needs of veterans and veteran spouses and to provide them with the support system they need and deserve.
Recently, I had the chance to speak to a group of veteran small-business owners at an event featuring experts from the Smithsonian, the Federal government, and the non-profit sector. Its goal was not only to celebrate them, but to help them win contracts with us and with the government. To me, that is the Smithsonian at its best: an Institution actively using its resources and collaboration to make our communities and the nation better. Just as importantly, to do it on behalf of the people who represent what it means to live a life of service to the country.
This Veterans Day, I hope each of us will take a moment to reflect on the examples set by our colleagues and all those who have worn, or who currently wear the uniform. I hope we also appreciate the unique sacrifices and support provided by all of their loved ones. Finally, I hope the examples of all who defend our freedom inspire us to find our own opportunities to give back.
Posted: 12 November 2024
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