Letter: Thank Q-C vets with more than a moment of silence


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Posted Online: Nov. 11, 2012, 6:00 am
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Since Sept. 11, 2001, almost three million Americans have answered our nation's call, and more than 1.3 million service men and women have since returned to our communities -- including the over 28,000 veterans who call the Quad-Cities home. They join the ranks of more than 22 million veterans who have served in the United States Armed Forces.

Following World War II, Nov. 11, previously known as "Armistice Day," became Veterans Day in order to thank and honor all America's veterans for their patriotism, love of country and willingness to serve and sacrifice for the common good.

Our service members, veterans and their families deserve to be applauded for their strength, devotion and service to our nation. It is our duty to maintain their trust and faith and always remind them through our support and actions that they are the strength of our nation.

To adequately honor our veterans and their families, America must continue to acknowledge their lasting legacy of strength and selfless service. Our military is committed to our veterans and providing them opportunities for employment, education and healthcare.

This Veterans Day -- more than pausing in silence to honor our nation's veterans -- let's demonstrate our support by looking for ways to reach out and help them. Don't just say "thank you" to our veterans, show it by hiring a veteran, or volunteering in the community, or supporting a local veteran's organization.

Together we can ensure our veterans have the opportunity to reach their highest potential!

First in Deed!

Lt. Gen. Mick Bednarek,
commander,
First Army

















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  Today is Thursday, June 20, the 171st day of 2013. There are 194 days left in the year.
1863 -- 150 years ago: The latest interpretation of the conscription law is said to be that $800 can be paid for an exemption, in which case the person will be eligible for call ina subsequent draft; or a substitute can be furnished. In the latter case, if the substitute isaccepted, the person he represents is exempted for that draft period.
1888 -- 125 years ago: A floral concert presented by Central Presbyterian Church womenattracted a large crowd yesterday.
1913 -- 100 years ago: Milton Reed, infielder on the Davenport baseball club, has beensold to the Philadelphia National league team.
1938 -- 75 years ago: The State Bank of Rock Island has doubled its capital structure,raising it to $1 million, according to Lewis B. Wilson, president of the bank.
1963 -- 50 years ago: The American Wind Symphony Orchestra will present two concertsin the Quad-Cities on Aug. 6, performing from its specially equipped stage-barge. Thebarge, which is traveling the Mississippi River route, will be moored just off the shore forthe concerts.
1988 -- 25 years ago: Fines for overdue items at the Rock Island Public Library are beingincreased to 10 cents per day per item effective July 1. Fines will not be prorated onbooks returned after that date.




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