Yellowhammer Times

Alabama Governor Kay Ivey released a video message on Monday in advance of Veterans Day, recognizing the service and sacrifices of veterans across the state. In her remarks, Ivey highlighted the nearly 400,000 veterans living in Alabama and acknowledged their contributions to the nation’s security.

Ivey spoke about her personal connection to Veterans Day through her father’s service in World War II. “My father, Boadman Nettles Ivey, landed on the shores of Normandy just six days after D-Day. He taught me at an early age that freedom is never free, and that service comes with sacrifice. I, along with many Alabama families, grew up knowing what it means to love a veteran,” she said.

She noted that veterans are present throughout Alabama communities as neighbors, friends, coworkers, and family members. “Nearly 400,000 veterans call Alabama home. They are our neighbors, our friends, our coworkers and our loved ones. And every single day, we are reminded that their service is what makes America great,” Ivey stated.

The governor also pointed to recent actions taken by the state government to improve support for veterans. These include elevating the Alabama Department of Veterans Affairs to cabinet-level status and establishing new programs designed to help veterans transition into civilian life.

“This year, we worked together to pass important legislation that strengthens how Alabama serves its veterans. We elevated the Department of Veterans Affairs, ensuring veterans’ voices are heard at the highest level of state government. And we created new resources to help veterans transition into civilian life,” she said.

Ivey reaffirmed Alabama’s commitment to those who have served: “These steps are about one thing: Keeping our promise to you – the brave men and women who sacrificed so much for this great nation we call home.”

She concluded her message by thanking all who have served and their families: “To all who have served, and to the families who have stood by them, thank you. May God bless our veterans, their families and may He continue to bless the great state of Alabama and these United States of America!”

The full video message from Governor Ivey can be downloaded before November 13 at https://wetransfer.com/downloads/dc7dfb7e5ef63eeb96a9d59efb88f13920251110203917/3660c35ef84be23f0e9aa5009ebbd4dd20251110204402/ce3447.