Some veterans want a ceasefire in Gaza

American flags are on display at the World War I Memorial to honor each of the 499 fallen DC area World War I veterans on November 11, 2016 in Washington, D.C.

Olivier Douliery / Olivier Douliery

Saturday marks Veterans Day in the United States. And while corporations shell out discounts and lawmakers offer their thanks for veterans’ service, some veterans say the day is a painful reminder of their own service, especially as war rages in Gaza between Israel and Hamas.

“As I reflect on what’s going on today in the Middle East in particular, you know, my goal is to be able to celebrate Veterans Day and not add more to Memorial Day,” said Dennis Fritz, a retired command chief master sergeant in the Air Force.

Fritz now serves as director of The Eisenhower Media Network – an organization of national security experts, including former military and intelligence personnel.