On Wednesday, we celebrate the courageous men and women who have served our country in the highest form possible — by serving in the armed forces.

Celebrated every Nov. 11, Veterans Day is a federally recognized holiday that honors the contributions made by American veterans. Originally recognized as Armistice Day to celebrate the end of World War I, the holiday became Veterans Day in 1954.

As per recent Leader tradition, we want to do our part to encourage readers to honor the contribution of our country’s soldiers Wednesday by sharing a few quotes about the holiday and veterans from prominent authors, leaders and thinkers in history.

“The veterans of our military services have put their lives on the line to protect the freedoms that we enjoy. They have dedicated their lives to their country and deserve to be recognized for their commitment.”

— Judd Gregg

“On this Veterans Day, let us remember the service of our veterans, and let us renew our national promise to fulfill our sacred obligations to our veterans and their families who have sacrificed so much so that we can live free.”

— Dan Lipinski

“While only one day of the year is dedicated solely to honoring our veterans, Americans must never forget the sacrifices that many of our fellow countrymen have made to defend our country and protect our freedoms.”

— Randy Neugebauer

“Well, look at what people are doing for returned veterans now. The wounded warriors. They’re working hard to make the wounded veterans feel that they are loved and welcomed home, unlike Vietnam. It was not a very kind, gentle world then. I think we are kinder and gentler.”

— Barbara Bush

“America’s veterans have served their country with the belief that democracy and freedom are ideals to be upheld around the world.”

— John Doolittle

“But this Veterans Day, I believe we should do more than sing the praises of the bravery and patriotism that our veterans have embodied in the past. We should take this opportunity to re-evaluate how we are treating our veterans in the present.”

— Nick Lampson

“When the peace treaty is signed, the war isn’t over for the veterans, or the family. It’s just starting.”

— Karl Marlantes

Opinions expressed are those of the editorial board consisting of Publisher Michael Caldwell and editors Ambrosia Neldon, Craig Haupert, Ted Yoakum and Scott Novak.