As many of you are aware, the current events that are taking place in Afghanistan are nothing short of tragic. The Taliban are taking control of Afghanistan at a frightening rate. Unfortunately, this, and similar events, is something generations of veterans have seen in, and around the world. A similar takeover occurred in Iraq in recent years, and we all know what happened with Vietnam.

We greatly empathize with all of today's U.S. Veterans as they sit and watch what is unfolding in the Middle East. We want to be 100% clear -- the sacrifice, commitment, and undeniable courage by all of our men and women soldiers these past 20 years was worth it.

They were the ones who kept our nation safe when many feared another attack after 9/11.

They were the ones who provided hope when we couldn’t find it ourselves.

They were the ones who brought justice to the people who deserved it most.

They were the heros who had the courage, fighting will, and sacrificed everything to give us all a safer life.

So, to all the men and women who served in Iraq and made the world a better, safer, and brighter place since the dark day of September 11, 2001, we salute you! Your efforts and your selfless acts will not be forgotten. No matter how the events unfold in Afghanistan moving forward, our troops executed and completed their mission under impossible circumstances in Iraq.

Please help us let all of our veterans know that their service matters today and it will matter tomorrow. We encourage everyone to take this time to check in on veterans. Ask how they are doing and see if they need anything.

Not sure how to help? Here are just a few organizations to check out to help get your started:

• Pay a visit to a wounded vet at your local VA Hospital
• Get involved with Home for Our Troops
• Be a part of providing resources to troops, veterans, and their families through Soliders’ Angels
• Volunteer with Veterans Moving Forward to help those who may have physical or mental health challenges

Whether you are a veteran from the War on Terror, Vietnam, or another era, our Eagle Mountian Family want to personally thank you for your service! Regardless of today’s events, your service mattered and it always will matter. You have been an inspiration to many and have helped shape an entire generation of youth.

We see you, we appreciate you, and we thank you from the bottom of our hearts!