Democratic Presidential Candidates Mark Veteran's Day

Most of the Democratic candidates marked Veterans Day today by issuing statements celebrating the sacrifices made by America's veterans. They used the occasion to draw attention to their own support for veterans. Some also used the day to call for an to the war in Iraq. Hillary Clinton, Barack Obama, John Edwards, Bill Richardson, and Dennis Kucinich each released statements marking Veterans day on their campaign websites. Statements had not been posted by the Dodd and Gravel campaign at the time this article was written.

"We pause today to honor all of the brave men and women who have honored us by wearing the nation's uniform," remarked Senator Hillary Clinton in a statement issued on her campaign website. She noted that while the nation's debt to veterans can never be repaid in full the country should do everything in its power to make sure that America's veterans receive the benefits they deserve.

"As we mark Veterans Day, all of America must speak with one voice to the America's veterans: we honor your service, we are in awe of your sacrifice, and we will do everything that it takes to be there for you just as you have been there for us," Senator Barack Obama was quoted as saying in a campaign press release. He too emphasized that the best way to honor America's veterans was to provide them with the support and respect they are due.

Former senator John Edwards issued a statement honoring the sacrifices made by the country's veterans in the name of preserving freedom and liberty. He also vowed to work to solve the nation's problems so that these sacrifices will not have been in vain. "In their name, let the world know that the fight for a greater America begins today. For universal health care, ending poverty, honoring our veterans, reclaiming our democracy, and ending the war in Iraq," Edwards said in comments first made in Iowa and then published on his campaign website.

Governor Bill Richardson focused his remarks on the sacrifices being made by America troops stationed in Iraq and Afghanistan. "They have done and continue to do everything we ask of them. In return for their service and sacrifice, I believe it is incumbent upon on all Americans to renew the sacred promise made to our military men and women," he said. He emphasized the importance of providing American troops with the equipment and the medical care they need. Richardson also expressed his belief that military force should be used only as a last resort to diplomacy and other alternatives. He called for an end to the war in Iraq, saying that there is no military solution to the conflict there.

Anti-war candidate Congressman Dennis Kucinich made no references to the war in Iraq in his own statement. "Veterans Day is a tribute to duty, to bravery, and to love of country," Kucinich said in a statement thanking veterans for their service.