'A debt of gratitude that can never be repaid': Alabama's top executive officials, legislators mark Veterans Day

November 11, 2026

Austen Shipley, 1819 News

Alabama’s top state and federal officials are honoring those who have served on the nation’s 73rd annual observance of Veterans Day.

Originally known as Armistice Day and established in November 1919, the holiday recognized veterans of the First World War. In June 1954, President Dwight D. Eisenhower signed legislation officially renaming the holiday to honor veterans of conflicts after WW1. Alabama first celebrated the occasion in 1947.

On Wednesday morning, the Yellowhammer State’s highest-ranking politicos took to social media with messages of gratitude for veterans across Alabama and the nation.

U.S. Sen. and Governor-elect Tommy Tuberville (R-Auburn) said Americans owe veterans a “debt of gratitude.”

U.S. Sen. Katie Britt (R-Montgomery) expressed appreciation for veterans throughout the nation’s history who have “helped preserve the freedoms we hold dear.”

Outgoing U.S. Rep. Barry Moore (R-Enterprise), who will replace Tuberville in the U.S. Senate, applauded veterans and promised that their sacrifices would endure

U.S. Rep. Robert Aderholt (R-Haleyville) stressed that America's freedoms have been secured through sacrifice and commitment.

U.S. Rep. Dale Strong (R-Huntsville) thanked veterans in Alabama’s fifth congressional district for their contributions and service in making North Alabama what it is today.

U.S. Rep. Gary Palmer (R-Hoover) wrote that Americans owe veterans a “debt of gratitude” that will never be fully equal to their sacrifice and service.

U.S. Rep. Terri Sewell (D-Hoover) also acknowledged the inability of civilians to fully repay veterans for their service.

U.S. Rep. Shomari Figures (D-Montgomery) pledged a continued effort to honor the legacy of veterans, including the Tuskegee Airmen.

On the state level, Governor Kay Ivey released a video segment to mark the holiday, calling it “one of the most sacred days of the year.”

Lt. Governor Will Ainsworth honored the “generations of American heroes” who have fought for continued freedom and liberty.

Attorney General Steve Marshall applauded Alabama's veterans, saying the state is proud to count a large number of veterans "among our own.”

Speaker of the House Nathaniel Ledbetter (R-Rainsville) called on Americans to educate their children and future generations on the “price of freedom.”

According to the United States Department of Veterans Affairs, Alabama is home to approximately 340,000 to 400,000 veterans, with the largest populations in Jefferson County, Madison County and Mobile County.