SC Alaska News

U.S. Senator Dan Sullivan (R-Alaska), a member of the Senate Veterans Affairs Committee, released a video message from Washington, D.C., to mark Veterans Day. In his address, Sullivan expressed appreciation for Alaskans' support of veterans and military personnel.

Sullivan highlighted Alaska's significant military community, noting that the state has more veterans per capita than any other in the country. He also mentioned the presence of active duty, reserve, and guard forces in Alaska and their families as a key part of the state's identity.

"Today, I want to begin by thanking all the veterans, all who have served our country—of course, our people who are still on Active Duty and Reserve duty, and their families. The families sacrifice so much and don't always get the attention that they deserve," Sullivan said. "So, to our veterans, our military, and our families: Thank you, thank you, thank you. I hope you have a very meaningful Veterans Day today."

Sullivan shared his personal connection to military service by noting his recent retirement from the Marine Corps after 30 years on active duty and in the reserves. He pointed out that he was speaking near the Marine Corps Memorial in Washington, D.C., which commemorates the flag raising at Iwo Jima.

He acknowledged November 10th as the 250th birthday of the United States Marine Corps. Addressing Marines in Alaska directly, Sullivan said: "For all the Marines back home in Alaska, Semper Fi. Oorah! Happy 250th birthday. We are proud of the Marines. We view it as the finest fighting force in the world."

Reflecting on U.S. military history, Sullivan stated: "Our military is probably one of the most powerful forces in the world for liberating men and women and children from tyranny and oppression—probably more than any other force." He cited several conflicts where U.S. forces played key roles.

He concluded with an offer to assist veterans facing challenges with VA benefits: "If our veterans have any issues at all working with the VA—not getting the benefits that you have earned as an American veteran—call my office, reach out to my team and me. This is one of the most important things we do—fight for our veterans and our military."

Sullivan closed by wishing all veterans a meaningful Veterans Day.