Monday is Veterans Day. It is vitally important to remember why we have this federal holiday to honor those who have served in the military, including many of our staff members. Beginning at the end of World War I in 1919, we, as Americans, commemorate our veterans by honoring their service every November 11th. This federal holiday was initially established to pay tribute to the ones who served during World War I, today, Veterans Day honors all military veterans, including those still alive, in contrast to Memorial Day, which remembers those who passed away while serving. Those who serve in the military, say they’re not in it for the money but for the virtues of honor, duty, sacrifice, and service to our country. In many ways, such virtues make up the backbone of who we are as a country. We have many veterans in our workforce and are grateful for each one. So, as we enjoy a 3-day weekend, let us remember the fallen veterans as well as those who have served and those who are currently serving. Thank you to each of our veterans for their service to our country. And thank you to all of you for your service to our great state of Kansas.

- Jeff Zmuda, Kansas Secretary of Corrections, addressing staff members.