In Honor of Veterans Day

Since Sarah began at The United States Air Force Academy, she has experienced how rewarding and motivating it is to train alongside so many proud and patriotic Americans. Especially since they are training and willing to give their lives and fight for any American and their freedoms.

When asked what Veterans Day means to her, Sarah responded "I encourage all Americans to reflect on the freedoms we experience every day in the United States. The freedom to pursue nearly every career imaginable, the freedom to live where we please, and the freedom to worship where and how we desire.

To me, all of these freedoms are like doors. In many countries these doors are closed. However, in America, these doors are held open by veterans, including heroic service-members who never came home. When we walk through these doors it is important to remember and to reflect on all veterans and service members who continue to hold them open for us.

One way to honor veterans is to attend local American Legion or VFW events, such as wreath laying at local military cemeteries. Showing up at these events demonstrates to them that they are remembered, but it also increases community connection and patriotism.

Even simpler-but equally impactful-is saying "thank you" and shaking a veteran’s hand. I have made this a habit in my life. The look of joy and surprise on a veteran’s face when you take the time to recognize them is rewarding and fulfilling!"

Sarah has learned a lot from veterans. From her experiences, "Veterans have taught me what it means to be selfless and what it means to care for others. When I have talked to veterans one common thread is their remembrance and devotion to their brothers and sisters in the arms that they have fought alongside. The love and reverence they have for each other is remarkable and can be motivation for us to have more compassion for each other and find ways to help the disadvantaged rather than solely work on our goals or self promotion."

We hope Sarah's story empowers you. We would like to thank all veterans for their service.

The Women and Girls Fund of Waukesha County, established in 2004 to improve the quality of life for women and girls in Waukesha County. Since 2005, the Women and Girls Fund has awarded more than $1.6 million to nonprofit organizations that promote the health and well-being, self-sufficiency and empowerment of women and girls of all ages.