The following reflections were shared by an Afghan neighbor who served alongside US forces before being forced to flee his home:
Today, on Veterans Day, I stand shoulder to shoulder with you — honestly, without hesitation, as we once did through every mission. For around four years, I served as a combat interpreter alongside the U.S. Armed Forces. I was often the first to speak with locals, to represent our unit, secure safety, and bridge understanding in moments of danger. Language barriers were challenging, but I carried out my duties with pride and honor.
Peace today comes at a huge cost. I could write books about our service — the countless times we could not let our families know whether we were alive, while our mothers prayed and hoped to hear our voices once more — and some never did. This is the weight of the freedom we live in today.
On this Veterans Day, I ask us to honor the mothers:
- To those whose sons or daughters are no longer with us — your children’s ultimate sacrifice gave us freedom and safety.
- To those whose children came home safely — their courage and your guidance made it possible, the result of honest work without regard for race, color, or religion.
Let us stand with one another. Let us judge each other by character, honor, and respect. Let our shared sacrifices unite us, not divide us.
As combat interpreters, we worked to prevent bloodshed and bring people together. We were — and are — united not by race, color, or religion, but by a shared mission for freedom and peace.
Let us not leave our combat interpreters and their families behind. They stood with us in the hardest of times and deserve our support, recognition, and protection.
To all who served and continue to serve — thank you for your courage, your sacrifice, and your unwavering dedication.
Happy Veterans Day.