With all eyes on his every move, Barack Obama reminded Americans today that Veterans Day has more significance than being just a day off from work.  The holiday was established to pay homage to the veterans of World War I, but we must not forget the war veterans of the rest of wars we have fought in the last century.  More precisely, we cannot forget the soldiers who are STILL fighting in the name of the United States. 

The Associated Press reports that this morning the president elect visited Chicago's Soldier Field alongside Iraq War Veteran Tammy Duckworth.  Duckworth, who lost both of her legs in combat during the Iraq War, is the director of the Illinois Department of Veteran Affairs. She is predicted by some to be announced as a part of Obama's administration or to be filling Obama's spot in the senate after he enters the White House.

The two laid a wreath in front of the John F. Kennedy War Memorial.  They bowed their heads for a moment then saluted.  On the back of the memorial is a phrase by JFK, whom Obama is regularly compared  "Let every nation know whether it wishes us well or ill, that we shall pay any price, bear any burden, meet any hardship, support any friend, oppose any foe, to assure the survival and the success of liberty." 

Obama said in a statement released today, "Since 9/11, a new generation of American heroes has borne a heavy load in facing down the threats of the 21st century, and their families have been asked to bear the painful absence of a loved one. These Americans are the best and bravest among us, and they are all in our thoughts and prayers."  Additionally he vowed, "As your next Commander-in-Chief, I promise to work every single day to keep that sacred trust with all who have served. May God bless our veterans, and may God bless the United States of America."