VETERANS PRESS: The Veterans Creed: 'I am an American Veteran…'

Business has ended at our monthly American Legion meeting in Rathdrum. All members stand to recite words that define their military service from the past— and beyond…the Veterans Creed. 

The Veterans Creed was developed and adopted by 11 major veteran organizations and was presented at an event on Flag Day, June 14, 2018, in Washington, D.C.  The creed is the result of extensive discussions and consultations among the group that began the prior fall at Georgetown University. This creed is meant to inspire veterans to continue to serve and lead in their communities and our country, and to continue to make a difference in our world.  

"In the Army, I lived both the Soldier's Creed and the NCO Creed," said John Towles, Director of National Security & Foreign Affairs for the Veterans of Foreign Wars of the U.S. "Both set a path for who I was as a member of the Armed Forces and served as a constant reminder of my obligations as a leader to those on my left and to my right. As veterans, we must realize that our service does not stop simply because we take off the uniform. Many of us struggle to find out place once we leave the military, but now we have a new set of watchwords to guide and remind our brothers and our sisters in arms that our mission is far from over." 

As of November 2023, there were more than 18 million living veterans in the United States. Approximately 200,000 men and women leave the military every year, transitioning back into civilian life. Many find it difficult to adjust to a different culture, in addition to finding healthcare and jobs. Veterans learned a lot during their military experiences — integrity, teamwork, leadership and selfless service. These traits were instilled in them throughout their service, and these traits remain a part of who they are today.   

The Veterans Creed reminds veterans of the principles and values learned in the military. They continue to make a difference in our world.