Every November 11, America pauses to honor the extraordinary men and women who have worn our nation’s uniform. From the battlefields of Europe to the deserts of the Middle East and countless missions around the world, our veterans have answered the call of duty, often placing service above self and country above comfort.
Their sacrifices remind us that freedom is never free. But as we salute their courage this Veterans Day, we should also recognize an important truth: The freedom our veterans fought to defend must be supported by the strength and security of our nation here at home. And that includes American energy. A strong America requires a strong military. A strong military requires reliable, affordable, and abundant energy.
Consider what it takes to defend our nation. Fighter jets cannot protect our skies without fuel. Naval vessels cannot safeguard international waters without energy. Tanks, helicopters, military installations, and the sophisticated technologies that support our armed forces all depend upon secure energy supplies. Energy is not simply another commodity. It is a strategic national asset.
Our military leaders understand this connection. In fact, federal law specifically recognizes energy security and resilience as essential to military readiness. America’s ability to produce, transport, refine, and deliver energy is directly connected to our ability to defend ourselves and support our allies.
That is why energy security must remain a national priority, not a political football.
For generations, American energy workers have helped provide the resources that power our economy and strengthen our national defense. From offshore platforms in the Gulf of America to onshore drilling operations, refineries, pipelines, and power plants across our nation, these hardworking Americans perform jobs that matter far beyond their own communities.
Many of these workers are veterans themselves. After serving their country in uniform, they continue that tradition of service by helping power the nation they once defended.
Their commitment deserves our respect.
And consider this: Every barrel of American oil produced responsibly, every cubic foot of American natural gas brought to market, and every investment in reliable domestic energy infrastructure represents another opportunity to reduce unnecessary dependence on foreign suppliers and strengthen America’s position in an increasingly uncertain world.
When America is dependent on others for essential energy resources, we risk allowing foreign nations to influence our economic security and strategic decisions.
Our veterans did not sacrifice so much for America to surrender its strength through avoidable energy dependence.
This year, as our nation celebrates 250 years since the Declaration of Independence, Veterans Day offers a particularly meaningful opportunity to reflect on the responsibilities that accompany freedom. Independence is more than a chapter in our history books. It is a responsibility that each generation must work to preserve.
That responsibility includes embracing policies that encourage responsible American energy development, modernize permitting, strengthen energy infrastructure, and provide the certainty necessary for long-term investment. At USA Energy Workers, we believe America’s future depends upon Balancing the 3Es® — Environment, Energy, and Economy. These principles are not competing interests. When approached responsibly, they reinforce one another.
We can protect our environment while producing the energy our military needs. We can strengthen our economy while creating opportunities for veterans transitioning into civilian careers. And we can lead the world in responsible energy development while advancing America’s national security.
We should never have to choose between environmental stewardship, economic prosperity, and a strong national defense. America has the talent, resources, technology, and workforce to achieve all three.
On Veterans Day, our first obligation is gratitude. We should thank those who served, remember those who never returned, and support the families who share in the sacrifices of military service. But gratitude should also inspire action.
Let us honor America’s veterans not only with flags, ceremonies, and heartfelt words, but also with a renewed commitment to keeping the country they defended strong, secure, and independent. Our veterans defended America’s freedom. Our responsibility is to ensure America has the energy to preserve it.