Editor’s note: This story appeared in Sound Publishing’s special section, Military Appreciation Day 2016, edited by Leslie Kelly. Kitsap County’s Military Appreciation Day celebration is planned for April 16 in the Kitsap Pavilion at the Kitsap County Fairgrounds. The event is free and open to the public.

The Kitsap County Board of Commissioners is proud to support Military Appreciation Day. The U.S. Armed Forces have had a presence in Kitsap County since 1891. We have nearly 25,000 active duty military in the county today.

You are the pride and strength of our nation, our county and our communities. Our military personnel have worked and lived alongside the loggers, fisherman, farmers, shipyard and sawmill workers, manufacturers and small business owners who have built our county into one of the greatest in the state.

Through the years, our Armed Forces, their families, veterans and civilians have not wavered in their support and patriotism.

We appreciate your faithful service, allowing all of us the liberty to enjoy our lives and celebrate in safe, secure communities.

We greatly value our decades-long partnership with Naval Base Kitsap, and recognize the substantial contributions of those who work there and support our local economy and businesses.

Today, Kitsap County is home to more than 35,000 veterans. We feel honored and privileged they chose Kitsap to come home to with our spectacular coastline, forests, recreation, and engaging and welcoming communities. We are committed to making sure they’re taken care of and have the resources they need.

The Kitsap County Veterans Advisory Board, comprised of veteran volunteers, keeps the Board of County Commissioners informed on the needs of veterans, helps distribute temporary emergency assistance and supports efforts to address challenges such as housing, job retraining and health services.

We owe a debt of gratitude for the sacrifices you and your families have made to preserve and protect our freedoms. Thank you for your selflessness, courage and dedication to defending this nation.

Your Kitsap County Board of Commissioners: Edward E. Wolfe, chairman; Charlotte Garrido, Robert Gelder