US Families Mark Veterans Day Amid Iran War Casualties

Families of United States service members are observing Veterans Day while navigating the first holiday season since the start of the war with Iran on February 28. The conflict has resulted in at least 23 service member deaths and nearly 900 injuries.

The federal government of the United States faces criticism from grieving parents and relatives who report a mixture of pride in their loved ones' service and anger regarding deployments. Some families have questioned the necessity of the war and are seeking further answers regarding the specific circumstances of their children's deaths.

Casualties include service members killed in a refueling plane crash in Iraq and others killed by debris during a drone detonation in Iraq. The emotional toll is highlighted by families such as those of Captain Ariana G. Savino, whose parents relocated to Puerto Rico following her death.