Branstad leads Veterans Day observance in Des Moines

Gov. Terry Branstad joined more than 200 Iowans in paying tribute to all veterans for their military service during a Veterans Day observance Monday.

“Our military veterans have cemented a foundation of freedom and liberty that we continue to enjoy and that all generations have enjoyed,” said Branstad, who was stationed with a military police battalion at Fort Bragg, N.C., during his two years of active duty.

Monday's annual ceremony, held at the 11th hour of the 11th day of the 11th month of the year, was a powerful reminder of the freedoms Americans cherish and that cannot be separated from the sacrifice of so many, the five-term governor told those in attendance at the Iowa Events Center. Earlier in the day, Branstad led an observance at the Iowa Veterans Cemetery in Adel.

“The best thing that we can say is a very sincere thank you for your service, for your dedication, for your courage,” Branstad said.