The U.S. Federal Aviation Administration will lift all restrictions on commercial flights imposed due to the government shutdown early Monday morning, ending the emergency order that led to the cancellation of thousands of flights and severe disruption to travel across the country.

The world's largest aircraft carrier, the USS Gerald R. Ford, arrived in the Caribbean Sea on Sunday, as tensions with Venezuela grow. The carrier, which has more than 4,000 sailors and dozens of tactical aircraft on board, has joined 15,000 service members already stationed in the region.

Southwest Airlines Chief Operating Officer Andrew Watson said in a letter to employees: "Once the shutdown ends, we are optimistic that the FAA will allow airlines to resume normal operations within days."

Today, we remember the heroes who never stopped when the country needed them. To every veteran who once wore their uniform and guarded our peaceful rest: We saw you. We thank you. We salute you. Thank you for your sacrifices. Happy Veterans Day!