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Sean D. Reyes
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Utah Attorney General Sean Reyes’ Veterans Day Statement

SALT LAKE CITY November 11, 2016 – Utah Attorney General Sean Reyes issued the following Veterans Day statement:

“On this Veterans Day, my team and I at the AG’s Office are reminded of the great debt owed to the men and women who defend our nation and the freedoms we enjoy. This year, we are particularly aware of our veterans’ sacrifices, both at home and abroad, as each selflessly places their lives and safety on the altar of freedom to protect the liberties and rights promised by our Constitution to all Americans, of every color, creed, and culture.

“On a personal level, I am forever grateful to those who have fought and continue to fight for the land and people that welcomed my own father as he fled an oppressive regime in the Philippines in response to the call of Lady Liberty. ‘Give me your tired, your poor, your huddled masses yearning to breathe free[…] Send these, the homeless, tempest-tost to me, I lift my lamp beside the golden door!’

“My family has lived by the light of this lamp, as do millions of other citizens who call America home, no matter their color, religion, or culture. I have great hope in our future and gratitude for our diversity because I sincerely believe that America is centered in respect and understanding of the beauties of freedom where diverse backgrounds and cultures coexist in harmony and peace. In every war that Americans have fought, it is the promise of freedom and opportunity for all that has inspired our soldiers.

“On a final note, our veteran community is one of the most vulnerable to succumb to suicide as these heroes battle post-traumatic stress disorder, depression, job displacement, and reintegration hurdles, among other mental, emotional, and economic challenges. Some reports indicate that we have lost more veterans of Middle East conflicts to suicide than to combat. While we never leave them behind in battle, we unknowingly abandon them when they return home. Let’s assure we provide the best healthcare, resources, and support for our veteran men and women who are too often fighting a different and internal war at home.”

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