The Archdiocese of Milwaukee recently took to social media to thank and honor veterans for their service.  

“As we observe Veterans Day, we are grateful for the freedom we have as Catholics. Thank you to all of those in the Archdiocese of Milwaukee who have served, and much gratitude to their families. We pray for you and may God bless you,” the diocese stated in a Facebook post on Veterans Day, Nov. 11.

The state is home to over 326,000 veterans, accounting for roughly 7.2% of Wisconsin's population, according to The Center Square. 

The Archdiocese for the Military Services, which provides spiritual services and care to members of the armed forces. It was established by Pope Saint John Paul II in 1985 and has over 220 pastors in 29 countries serving over 1.8 million people, according to The Archdiocese for the Military Services. 

“The Archdiocese serves as the sole endorser (certifier) of Roman Catholic chaplains to the United States government,” the organization states. “A Roman Catholic priest cannot serve within the United States Military as a priest without the express permission of the Archdiocese. As of 2020, 204 Roman Catholic priests were endorsed by the Archdiocese for active-duty military service. These chaplains serve on loan from their diocese of incardination or religious order/society and are released for a term of military service.”

The Milwaukee VA honored veterans in a ceremony on Nov. 9, according to WDJT

"I feel humbled every time," Jason Church told the news organization. "Days like today, where the rest of the country honors veterans who come from all walks of life, is something that really makes us stand out as a nation.”

Church, a retired US Army captain who lost both of his legs in Afghanistan, added that it showed the people appreciated the sacrifice of veterans, which “is not a common mentality throughout the world, to honor veterans the way that we do.”