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CAS3
11-12-03, 11:00 AM
New Generation of Combat Vets Marks Veterans Day 2003

WASHINGTON (Nov. 6, 2003) - With a new generation of combat veterans
deployed in Iraq and Afghanistan, the men and women of the Department of
Veterans Affairs (VA) join with millions of Americans on Nov. 11 to honor
those who served in America's armed forces.

"If anyone wonders what it means to be a veteran, turn on the television
news or read the newspaper headlines from Southwest Asia," said Secretary of
Veterans Affairs Anthony J. Principi. "Like generations of combat veterans
before, Americans in uniform today and their families are making great
personal sacrifices to serve our nation."

On Veterans Day, Principi will join President George W. Bush, military
leaders and representatives of the major veterans service organizations for
the traditional wreath-laying at the Tomb of the Unknowns at Arlington
National Cemetery. The event is scheduled for 11 a.m. -- the historic
moment on Nov. 11, 1918, that marked the end of World War I.

Many VA facilities will also host local observations of Veterans Day at that
hour, often serving as the focal point of commemorative events within their
communities.

VA has an Internet site about Veterans Day at http://www.va.gov/vetsday.
This site provides information on the history of Veterans Day and a
teachers' guide to help students appreciate the contributions of America's
veterans.

"On this Veterans Day, let us remember the sacrifices of the men and women
who have worn -- and continue to wear -- the uniforms of our armed forces,"
said Principi. "We owe so much to those who stand on the outposts of
liberty today, exercising the highest duties of citizenship, defending our
liberties and making America a force for good in the world."