USAA Honors Veterans

November 10, 2008 · Flags, salutes, music and inspirational stories of heroism were just part if the celebration at USAA last week, as they kicked off their celebration of Veteran's Day and National Veterans Awareness Week.

Representatives from all of the armed forces were on hand to celebrate dedication to the country and to remember those who gave the ultimate sacrifice.

Keynote Speaker, Tammy Duckworth, spoke of her own service as a Black Hawk helicopter co-pilot.   Though injuries on-duty led to the loss of her legs and the use of one arm, she still finds ways to serve and encourages others to do so, as well.

"Every single one of us must get up everyday and commit to serving America, and that service can come in many different ways."

Though she is no longer in uniform, Duckworth is now the Director for Illinois's Veteran's' Affairs helping veterans as they return home.  She says supporting the families of soldiers is just as important as supporting the soldiers themselves.

"Each one of you has to find that place, whether it's helping to hire a vet, whether its mowing your neighbor's lawn, maybe it's being there and giving them an extra hour. But, it's that support to our military families that's also a support to our nation."

San Antonio, also known as "Military City, USA", continues to salute its resident veterans this week.