To all service members and veterans: Thank you for your service to our country and for protecting the freedoms that all Americans enjoy.

It is important to remember the sacrifices our military members and their families make, and the promises we make to them once they return home.

The transition from military to civilian life can be difficult, and that’s why we have a responsibility to make that transition as seamless as possible.

That means making sure that veterans have access to quality, affordable health care. Access to a good education and a good job. And access to safe, affordable housing.

As your senator — and Montana’s only member of the Senate Veterans Affairs Committee — I will work every day to make sure this nation keeps its promises to our veterans and honors their sacrifices.

Democratic Sen. Jon Tester was elected to a second term in 2012.