A Day of Remembrance, a Day of Honor: Why We Must Never Forget Our Veterans

October 1 holds deep meaning for our family. It is a day etched by both sorrow and joy. It is a day that reminds us of the immense cost of freedom and the enduring pride we feel for those who serve to protect it.

Captain Justin Dale Peterson, USMC,

Flag being presented to Justin's son, Jared.

Nineteen years ago, on October 1, we received devastating news that would forever change our family. My nephew, Marine Captain Justin Dale Peterson, was killed in Iraq. Justin served in the 1st Marine Division, 1st Tank Battalion, and was deployed to Iraq in 2006. That mission came at the highest personal cost--his life. He paid the ultimate sacrifice defending the freedoms we hold dear.

Every year on this day, we remember Justin, not only as a Marine but also as a son, a husband, a father, a brother, a nephew, a friend, a cousin, a hero. His dedication, courage, service, and sacrifice continue to inspire us, and we honor his memory with love and deep gratitude.

This day also marks a moment of celebration and reflection.

Master Sergeant Curtis Connor, USAF (retired).

On October 1, 2025, Master Sergeant Curtis Lee Connor, father of my son-in-law, was one of 101 veterans selected to participate in the Triad Honor Flight that departed the Piedmont Triad International Airport in Greensboro, N.C., bound for Washington, D.C. Triad Honor Flights are powerful tributes organized by the affiliated branch of the National Honor Flight program, which provides veterans, especially those who served in World War II, Korea, and Vietnam, the opportunity to visit the national memorials built in their honor in our nation's capital.

Master Sergeant Connor is actively involved in veterans affairs, including the annual Thomasville, N.C., Memorial Day Parade.

Master Sergeant Connor, who proudly served in the U.S. Air Force for 23 years, toured the World War II Memorial, Korean War Memorial, Vietnam Veterans Memorial, the Iwo Jima Memorial, and the Arlington National Cemetery. It was not just a trip but a long-overdue recognition for service, sacrifice, and unwavering patriotism.

Special thanks is due to Piedmont Triad International Airport, which played a pivotal role in this celebration and tribute, ensuring that these veterans were given the send-off and welcome home they so deeply deserve.

Daniel Connor, son of Master Sergeant Connor, preparing for the Honor Flight,

Seeing communities come together to honor our veterans--clapping, waving flags, offering hugs and handshakes--was a moving reminder of the unity and gratitude we can show when we choose to remember.

Daniel and Stacy Connor and Mrs. Shirley Connor, Master Sergeant Connor's wife, at the send-off of the veterans' Honor Flight.

We have so much to be thankful for in this country: freedoms we enjoy daily, opportunities that shape our lives, and safety that we often take for granted. These are all blessings that continue to be secured by the brave men and women of our armed forces.

But remembering isn't enough. Our veterans deserve more than a passing thank you. They deserve our ongoing support, our recognition, and our advocacy both as individuals and as communities.

Veterans' families also carry the burden of service. Enduring long deployments, living with constant uncertainty, and, for some, facing the unimaginable loss of a loved one. We must not overlook their sacrifices. We owe it to them to recognize their service, stand in solidarity with them, and ensure that they are never forgotten.

On this meaningful day, October 1, and every day, let us never forget the cost of our freedom or those who have borne it.

To Captain Justin Peterson, Master Sergeant Curtis Connor, and all the other veterans who have served, THANK YOU! Your sacrifice is not forgotten. Your service is deeply appreciated. And your stories will be told.

Are you looking for ways you can support your local veterans? Here are some suggestions:

1. Honor their stories. Attend veterans events. Volunteer with local veterans organizations and activities.

2. Support veterans programs. Donate to national organizations such as the Honor Flight Network and the Wounded Warrior Project or to your local veteran support groups.

3. Educate the next generation. Teach your children and grandchildren about the sacrifices veterans have made to ensure their freedoms. Take them to visit memorials. Talk about the service of veterans respectfully and reverently. Teach them of their own responsibilities to defend freedom for future generations.

4. Check in and reach out. If you know a veteran, check in on them occasionally to find out how they're doing. A simple call or visit can mean the world to them.

5. Advocate. Support legislation and initiatives that promote support for veterans and their families.

   

   Freedom isn't free. All gave some; some gave all.