More than 18 million veterans live in the U.S., and we are deeply grateful to the men and women who have served our country in the U.S. military. This Veterans Day, we reflected on the sacrifices made by those in uniform and their steadfast commitment to safeguarding our nation and upholding its leadership on the world stage. At the U.S. Global Leadership Coalition (USGLC), we especially value the contributions of our Veterans for Smart Power, who understand better than most that securing our nation requires more than just military might.

Regardless of why these brave men and women chose to serve our country, they have answered the call of duty, risking their lives to defend our nation’s values and protect our homeland. No matter the domain, whether by land, sea, air, space, or cyberspace, their courage has preserved the safety of millions. Yet their service doesn’t end when they leave the battlefield and take off their uniform. Many continue to serve our country by championing a vision of national security that relies on diplomacy and development alongside our defense.

Veterans have played a critical role in promoting smart power to achieve our national security goals. They bring a unique perspective that combines their military service to our nation with an understanding of the importance of diplomatic and development efforts in preventing conflicts and promoting U.S. interests. These veterans understand the importance of U.S. global leadership and engagement, having firsthand witnessed the consequences of conflict when diplomacy fails.

Investing in development and diplomacy honors the legacy of our veterans by fostering a world in which conflicts are resolved without military intervention. Veterans, who have witnessed the destruction that war brings, understand that preventing conflict is always the best course of action. By supporting U.S. initiatives that deliver humanitarian aid, promoting economic development, and strengthening democratic governance, we uphold the values that veterans continue to defend to create a more stable, peaceful world.

Diplomacy builds partnerships and alliances, extending America’s influence globally. These diplomatic efforts, supported by development, address the root causes of instability—such as poverty, inequality, and lack of opportunity. By investing in these areas, we stabilize fragile regions and reduce the likelihood of being drawn into future conflicts.

In today’s complex world, national security isn’t solely about military dominance; it’s about fostering cooperation and helping other nations achieve independence.

Efforts such as providing clean water, improving education, and combating diseases like malaria and HIV save lives and create stable communities. These actions reduce the likelihood of conflict and foster long-term goodwill, benefiting our national security and economy. For veterans, every dollar spent on development and diplomacy is a step toward a safer future—one where fewer young men and women will have to face the horrors of combat.

As we thank our veterans for their sacrifices, we must also commit to preserving America’s role as a global leader. For decades, the United States has led through military strength and the power of its values—freedom, democracy, and peace. Veterans know true leadership involves more than military power; it encompasses moral responsibility and collaboration with allies to create a better, more stable world.

Supporting smart power ensures that America continues to lead through partnership and diplomacy. Having witnessed the consequences of failed diplomacy firsthand, veterans are among the strongest advocates for continued U.S. involvement in global affairs. Their service reminds us that protecting our nation means winning wars and preventing them altogether.

As we look ahead to what comes next, we celebrate the 513 veterans who ran for Congress this election cycle — and we applaud the more than 80 who won their respective elections and will join the 119^th Congress. Our veterans having a voice in our government is important. And to the men and women across the country who have chosen to continue their service by pivoting to Capitol Hill, we thank you.

To all our veterans, we offer our deepest gratitude. Thank you for your courage, service, and ongoing efforts to ensure a strong, secure, and globally engaged America. We will continue to uphold the values you fought to protect, ensuring peace and stability for future generations.