Thank you, veterans

This edition of AgriNews is steeped in gratitude for veterans from all branches of the U.S. Armed Forces for their service, both during times of war and in peace.

We are thanking veterans — many who were volunteers and many others who were drafted — for leaving their families and friends behind, for months and years at a time, to risk their lives for the United States of America.

The motives of those who engage in military and agricultural livelihoods share an important commonality. They want to serve.

That service often extends from the farm field to the battlefield — and then back, growing the food that fills America’s pantries and dinner tables.

Of the 3.4 million agricultural producers across the United States, 305,753 — that is, 9% — have served or are currently serving in the military, according to the latest Census of Agriculture.

On this Veterans Day, and all year long, please join AgriNews in giving thanks for these heroes.

Their sacrifices make it possible for us to enjoy the freedoms we have in our country, and they should all know how much we value and appreciate them.

To our veterans, thank you for your service.