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Politics have been put aside, at least for today, to mark veterans day.

U.S. Sen. Pat Roberts (R-KS) and the Kansas Democratic Party Chair Larry Gates each released statements today marking Veterans Day.

Roberts:

"Today we honor the brave men and women who throughout our nation’s history have taken up arms in defense of our nation. They have defended our freedoms, often paying the ultimate sacrifice, to preserve the way of life we hold so dear. On this Veterans Day, we pay tribute to their courage and dedication. They always will have our unfailing gratitude.

"Those now currently serving here at home and in Iraq, Afghanistan and all across the globe represent future generations of veterans. The many sacrifices they and their families are making serve as a daily reminder that freedom is not without cost. Let us especially pause to remember those who were lost or injured just last week at Ft. Hood. That tragedy shows us that service and sacrifice can come at home or abroad.

"As a United States Senator and former Marine, I take the commitment to our nation’s veterans seriously and am honored to continue to work with my colleagues on behalf of them. In Kansas, there are more than 250,000 veterans throughout the state to whom I extend my heartfelt thanks. With gratitude from one veteran to all others throughout this great nation, Semper fi."

Gates:

“Across the country, Americans are honoring our veterans and the sacrifices they have made in service of their nation.  They have sacrificed more than most of us can comprehend – leaving behind their family, friends and loved ones while putting themselves in harms way to defend our country.

“Today we salute their heroic contributions with ceremonies and celebrations, but are also reminded that we must follow these gestures with actions.

“Our veterans have never wavered in their commitment to their country, and it is our duty as a grateful nation to ensure that when they come back from battle, they receive the care and support they have earned. 

“Though we have made progress, there is still much work to be done. While our servicemen and women are fighting for us, we must continue to fight for them – we must ensure that every Veteran gets the care, educational and economic opportunity they fought so hard to preserve.”