Honoring Our Heroes: A Family Legacy of Service and a Nation’s Gratitude

Veterans Day 2026

“The 11th hour of the 11th day of the 11th month.”

Today, on Veterans Day, we pause to remember, honor, and give thanks to the men and women who have worn the uniform of the United States Armed Forces. Across generations and in communities throughout our country, Americans have answered the call to serve, often placing duty, country, and the freedoms of others above their own comfort and safety.

As I reflect on this day, my thoughts turn not only to the millions of Americans who have served and are currently serving our nation, but also to the remarkable legacy of service within my own family. I am especially grateful for the opportunity to recognize those family members whose service has helped shape our family’s history and our appreciation for the freedoms we enjoy.

Their stories span generations and conflicts, from the founding of our great country through the First and Second World Wars, Korea, Vietnam, and beyond. Each represents a personal commitment to something greater than oneself.

Members of My Family Who Have Served Our Nation:

• James E. Kennedy, Sr. (Father) – U.S. Army National Guard, Korea: My father set an enduring example of strength, resilience, and devotion to country through his service during the Korean War.
• Frank Kennedy (Grandfather) – U.S. Army, World War I and World War II: Having served in two world wars, my grandfather represents a remarkable generation whose courage and commitment helped shape the world in which we live today.
• Thomas Cobb (Father-in-Law) – U.S. Army, Vietnam: His service during the Vietnam era reflects the commitment of those who answered our nation’s call during a particularly challenging chapter in American history.
• Christopher Cobb (Brother-in-Law) – U.S. Navy: His service represents the dedication and sacrifice of the men and women who have protected our nation through their service at sea.
• Earl Cobb (Grandfather-in-Law) – U.S. Army, World War II: A member of the Greatest Generation, his service and sacrifice helped preserve the freedoms that subsequent generations have inherited.
• Kenneth Mallette Sr. (Uncle) – U.S. Army, Korea: His service during the Korean War adds another chapter to our family’s tradition of answering the call to serve.
• Sue Sturgeon (Aunt) – U.S. Army, Vietnam: Her service is a reminder of the important contributions and sacrifices of the women who have worn our nation’s uniform.
• John Kennedy (Cousin) – U.S. Marines: His commitment to the Marine Corps reflects the courage, discipline, and dedication associated with those who serve in its ranks.
• Joseph Mallette (Cousin) and Paula Mallette (Cousin) – U.S. Army: Both represent the spirit of service and sacrifice that has become part of our family’s legacy.
• Henry Kenaston (Uncle) – U.S. Army: His service adds yet another meaningful chapter to our family’s history of military service.

This list represents only a portion of the veterans in my family. There are others whose service and contributions deserve recognition, along with the many close friends and extended family members who have also worn the uniform. I am proud of every one of them and grateful for the legacy they have left for the generations that follow.

My family is not unlike so many others throughout our great country. Families across America have their own rich and heartfelt legacies of service, sacrifice, and patriotism. But Veterans Day is about so much more than our own family histories.

Here in Citrus County, across Florida, and throughout this great nation, there are veterans living among us whose stories we may never fully know. They are our neighbors, friends, colleagues, educators, public servants, first responders, parents, grandparents, and community leaders. Some served during wartime, others during peacetime. Some returned home to recognition, while others quietly carried the memories and burdens of their service for the remainder of their lives.

Regardless of when, where, or how they served, each deserves our gratitude.

To every veteran, whether you served decades ago or recently returned home, whether you served overseas or here at home, please know that your service matters, your sacrifice matters, and you matter.

Thank you for your courage. Thank you for your commitment. Thank you for answering the call.

And to the members of my own family who have served, I carry tremendous pride and gratitude for the example you have set. Your legacy is woven into our family history, and your service will never be forgotten.

May God bless our veterans, the families who stand beside them, and the United States of America.

Happy Veterans Day!

God Bless America!

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