Thank you for joining us as we honor our nation’s heroes. I’m Laura Koerner, Chairwoman of the Texas Veterans Commission, and a proud U.S. Navy veteran.
My own journey as a veteran began at the United States Naval Academy and continued as a Surface Warfare Officer, serving aboard the USS Mahan and the USS Enterprise. Those experiences taught me resilience, leadership, and the meaning of service to others. They continue to guide me every day in my role with the Texas Veterans Commission.
On this Veterans Day, we pause to honor all who have worn the uniform — those who returned home, those who live with visible and invisible wounds, and those who did not return at all. We also honor the families who served alongside them in quiet sacrifice.
Texas is home to one of the largest veteran populations in America, and the largest number of women veterans in the nation. That is not just a statistic; it is a solemn responsibility. At the Texas Veterans Commission, we carry that mission forward every day. Through our eight core programs: Claims, Healthcare Advocacy, Education, Employment, Entrepreneurship, Women Veterans, Mental Health, and Grants, we work to ensure veterans and their family members have access to the benefits and support they have earned.
This year, we’ve expanded healthcare advocacy, awarded millions in community grants through the Fund for Veterans’ Assistance, grown services for women veterans, and strengthened mental health outreach across the state. Veterans remind us that service does not end when the uniform comes off. They continue to lead in our schools, our businesses, and our communities. On this Veterans Day, let us commit not only to gratitude, but to action. We want every veteran to know you are seen, you are valued, and in Texas, you are never alone.
Thank you for your service, your courage, and your continued leadership.