Since 1954, our nation has celebrated Veterans Day, previously known as Armistice Day, on November 11th. Due to the pandemic, celebrations may be different in many ways this year, but the heart of this occasion remains the same: We take time to honor and thank those unsung heroes who put country before self to serve as a member of the U.S. Armed Services … the U.S. Army, Navy, Marines, Air Force, Space Force and Coast Guard … to promote and safeguard democracy across the globe. The willingness to don the uniform of our country signals a willingness to give time and talent, to be away from family and friends for long periods of time, and to risk the ultimate sacrifice in defense of our country. We thank all veterans for their service and sacrifices.
I am proud that the Port of Seattle has a strong history of supporting veterans. About 9 percent of employees at the Port identify themselves as veterans. That percentage is much higher than many other employers and speaks well of our organization that we attract those who know what it is to serve. Through our Veterans Fellows and workforce development programs, we support the transition of veterans into the civilian workforce. The motto “Hire a vet” makes good sense. Veterans bring values, work ethic, and determination to every job.
Our Military Veterans at the Port (MVP) Employee Resource Group is very active in support of other veterans and the community. I am grateful to the MVP and other Port of Seattle staff for ensuring that our annual celebration of veterans is brought to the fore. The event this year comes at a time of greater awareness of how systemic racism and inequities affected Black, Indigenous, and other communities of color. Many Black, Indigenous, and People of Color (BIPOC) individuals served our country even when they did not have access to the rights that most Americans took for granted.
The theme this year is, “Honoring our Military’s Unsung Heroes.” Our panelists from Buffalo Soldiers, Women’s Veterans Advisory Committee, Veteran’s Sweat Lodge at American Lake Hospital, and Nisei Veterans will share how communities facing discrimination fought for democracy and freedom, standing for America at a time when America did not fully stand for them. I encourage all of us to look squarely at the difficult parts of our history; by confronting the wrongs of the past, we build a more equitable future.
For some veterans the biggest challenge comes when they leave the service. Too many vets are homeless or face significant mental health and addiction challenges, and the pandemic has hit them very hard. The National Coalition for Homeless Veterans Stand Down program is modeled on a practice that began during the Vietnam War – providing a safe retreat from combat for soldiers, a brief respite from ongoing battles. This year, many Stand Down events have been cancelled or changed to a virtual format, but they are still working to provide that safe haven for those who need it, who have earned it by their service to country.
- Stephen P. Metruck, Executive Director, Port of Seattle
