Updated

Every year, more than 25 million people from around the world visit the National Mall in Washington, DC. The Mall is lined with important memorials, each honoring some of America’s greatest heroes.

And yet, none of these monuments recognizes the millions of disabled American veterans who have selflessly fought for freedom throughout our nation’s history.

This will soon change. [pullquote]

On October 5, 2014, the American Veterans Disabled for Life Memorial (AVDLM), the first national memorial honoring disabled veterans, will be dedicated. It opens to the public the following day. Within sight of the U.S. Capitol, this new national landmark will serve as a constant reminder of the cost of human conflict.

I am honored to have served in the United States Air Force in Vietnam and several other countries in Southeast Asia. However, when we came back from war those who had sacrificed everything were not welcomed home with the respect they earned. It was and remains my vision to have an America that refuses to let policies and political gain interfere with the way we achieve our sacred obligation to care for our sick and injured disabled veterans; an America that is not just grateful to her veterans but forever indebted. The American Veterans Disabled for Life Memorial will stand as a permanent reminder of that obligation.

Since 1998, a small group of dedicated men and women have worked tirelessly to ensure the American public understands the sacrifices made by disabled veterans. In just a few short weeks the Memorial will transform from a distant dream into a wonderful reality—a gathering place for veterans, their caregivers, families, and loved ones.

The AVDLMhonors veterans with both physical injuries and disabilities and “invisible” ones, such as post-traumatic stress disorder. It pays tribute to disabled heroes from all conflicts and each branch of the military, the first of the Washington monuments to honor such a broad and diverse group of Americans.

Physically, the memorial is designed to convey a combination of strength and vulnerability, loss and renewal. The story of America’s disabled veterans is complex and multilayered, not easily told by a single statue or plaque. Not only does the Memorial cover more than two centuries of heroism and struggle, but also it includes the untold stories of the caregivers, family and friends of our country’s wounded warriors. A star-shaped fountain and reflecting pool, surrounded by glass walls with embedded words and images depicting personal journeys of courage and sacrifice, serves as its focal point, mirroring the flickering light of a ceremonial flame.

Combining solemn reflection and a celebration of bravery and sacrifice, the American Veterans Disabled for Life Memorial dedication will honor those men and women whose service and struggle, on and off the field of battle, remind us of the true price of the freedoms we enjoy every day.

Come October, for the first time, America will have place to pay tribute to some of our most courageous heroes – our disabled veterans. I encourage my neighbors here in Florida, veterans from around the country and all those who wish to honor them, to come to the dedication ceremony on October 5th. The event is free and open to the public, but registration is required.

For more information, please visit www.avdlm.org.