Obama: Take Time to Honor Troops, Families

By Elaine Sanchez
American Forces Press Service

WASHINGTON  – President Barack Obama pointed out the importance of honoring military families’ contributions and sacrifices in his proclamation declaring Nov. 20-26 National Family Week.

“Our troops and military families serve with valor at home and overseas, and as a nation we have a moral obligation to serve these patriots as well as they have served us,” the president wrote.

First Lady Michelle Obama and Dr. Jill Biden, wife of Vice President Joe Biden, launched the Joining Forces campaign earlier this year to better fulfill this promise to troops, veterans and their families, the president said. The initiative is intended to raise awareness of the challenges military families face and to challenge Americans to make a difference in their lives.

As loved ones gather for the holidays, Obama urged all Americans to pause to give thanks to those who share in the “trials and triumphs of our lives.”

“Our families illuminate our days and bring meaning to our years, and their love has the power to see us through our greatest challenges,” he said. “This week and throughout the year, let us strive to give back to our friends, families, communities and neighbors, and to work together in pursuit of our highest ambitions.”

The president urged states, communities and individuals to take part in ceremonies and activities that celebrate the nation’s families throughout the week.

“This week, we celebrate the threads of compassion and unity that tie our families together, enrich our communities and strengthen the fabric of our nation,” he wrote.