On November 7th, the City of Tualatin held the 2025 Veterans Recognition Breakfast at the Pohl Center. I had the honor of serving as the MC for the seventh year, and I’m reminded that honoring our veterans extends far beyond a single day of recognition. It requires a sustained commitment to supporting those who served and the families who stood beside them through every deployment, every challenge, and every sacrifice.
As a veteran, I’ve witnessed firsthand the unique challenges our military families face. When we raise our right hand and take the oath of service, our families take an unspoken oath alongside us. They endure the long separations, manage households alone during deployments, and carry the weight of worry that comes with having a loved one in harm’s way. They are the silent strength behind every service member’s dedication.
At the breakfast, generations of service were represented —from World War II to Korea, from Vietnam to the Cold War, from the Persian Gulf to Iraq and Afghanistan, and those still serving around the world. Each conflict brought distinct challenges, but we all share that common thread of service above self. Yet the battles don’t always end when we come home. Many veterans struggle with the invisible wounds of war, face difficulties transitioning to civilian life, or need assistance navigating the complex benefits system they’ve earned.
Here in Tualatin, we have a responsibility and an opportunity to be a community that truly supports our veterans and their families. This means ensuring access to quality healthcare, including mental health services. It means connecting veterans with career opportunities that match their skills and leadership experience. It means providing resources for families dealing with PTSD, traumatic brain injuries, or the challenges of reintegration after deployment.
Supporting our veterans also means being there for Gold Star families—those who have paid the ultimate price. Their loved ones will never come home, and we must ensure they know their sacrifice is remembered and honored not just today, but every day.
As a community, we must commit to being informed about the resources available, from VA services to local support organizations. We must create spaces where veterans feel comfortable seeking help without stigma. We must employ veterans, mentor them, and integrate them into the fabric of our community life.
This Veterans Day, let us recommit ourselves to being a community worthy of their sacrifice—one that doesn’t just thank veterans for their service, but actively works to ensure they and their families have the support, respect, and opportunities they deserve. That is how we truly honor their commitment to our nation.
