VA announces 'Veterans Pride' initiative Published Oct. 18, 2006 WASHINGTON (AFPN) -- Leaders of major veterans organizations joined Veterans Affairs Secretary R. James Nicholson here today to launch an effort to "kindle a new spark of patriotism" by asking men and women who have served in the military to wear their medals on Veterans Day. "We are announcing a 'Veterans Pride Initiative' to remind Americans of the pride and honor in the hearts of those who have served," Mr. Nicholson said. "We expect Americans will see our decorated heroes unite in spirit at ceremonies, in parades and elsewhere as a compelling symbol of courage and sacrifice on Veterans Day, the day we set aside to thank those who served and safeguarded our national security." The campaign is modeled after a tradition in Australia and New Zealand, countries who honor the Australian and New Zealand Army Corps on April 25 each year, VA officials said. Mr. Nicholson said he hopes a U.S. tradition will ensue to emulate this pride in being a veteran and in honoring the nation's veterans. VA is offering information about the campaign on a Veterans Pride Initiative Web page where veterans also can obtain information about how to replace mislaid medals and learn how to confirm the decorations to which they are entitled. (Courtesy of American Forces Press Service, from a Department of Veterans Affairs news release)