Commentary by Marty Swofford Jr. / For The Daily News

Veterans Day is a holiday that until recently I have taken lightly. Even as a sailor in the greatest Navy in the world, I looked forward to having the rigors of work and the droning of everyday life being slowed by a day off that I could sit around and do nothing — giving little thought as to what the true purpose of Veterans Day truly is. This year, however, it is very different.

This year I have been blessed to have my brother Sgt. Jason Swofford, USMC, home and alive. You see Jason was injured while conducting counter-insurgent operations in Afghanistan on Oct. 30, only a few weeks before he was to return home to his young family and son. In many ways it is a miracle he is still with us. Jason was hit by an IED (improvised explosive device) designed to inflict maximum damage to its target.

There is no way to describe the pure and utter pain associated with the news of a loved one injured in battle. The initial reports were vague and bleak. We had no real way of knowing Jason’s condition. All we could do was wait — an experience no family should have to endure. Thankfully the day came and we were notified Jason was alive and being cared for by some of the world’s foremost trauma treatment teams. A weight was lifted; my brother was alive.

However, there are many Marines, soldiers, airmen and sailors who are not as fortunate. Many come home, draped in the national ensign. Still, there are men and women on the front line, putting their lives on the line to protect the freedoms and rights we as Americans take for granted every day. They do not ask for thanks. They don’t ask for compensation. They just continue the mission. They sleep in dirt, mud and muck. They work long hours, not sleeping for days. But still they continue, they press on.

It is for these selfless souls that we celebrate Veterans Day. It is our time as American citizens to recognize those who serve. It is our time to put them in the forefront of our lives. It is a day to thank those who ask for nothing yet give their all. From this year forward, I will look at Veterans Day as a time to be thankful. Thankful that the brother I love is still with us today. Thankful that we have men and women protecting everything that is America. Thankful I have the privilege to serve next to the bravest men and women our country has to offer.

I ask that you all take the time to reflect on the privileges provided to you by these great Americans. Look at the life, which if not for them, would not be, and be thankful. Use every Veterans Day to thank those proud service members who do what is asked of them. They do it with pride, honor and integrity. In return, with the same pride, honor and integrity, thank them for everything we hold dear.

Navy Petty Officer 2nd Class Marty Swofford Jr. is the brother of Marine Sgt. Jason Swofford of Castle Rock, who was wounded by an improvised explosive device Oct. 30, while leading a patrol in Afghanistan.