Thank You Veterans!
Regardless of the times, one thing should always remain. Showing appreciation for our Veterans. Those individuals that sacrifice not only life and limb for their fellow man and country, but also time with families, friends and loved ones for their country. Growing up as a ‘Military Brat’ (and a brother serving) we’re more than aware of the privileges we have each and every day because of these brave men and women. As John F. Kennedy said, “As we express our gratitude, we must never forget that the highest appreciation is not to utter words, but to live by them” or Otto Von Bismark, “Anyone who has ever looked into the glazed eyes of a solder dying on the battlefield will think hard before starting a war.”
Now for a little history lesson: Ninety years ago today, President Woodrow Wilson proclaimed the very first Veterans Day celebration. Veterans Day (also known as Armistice or Remembrance Day in other countries) is an annual American holiday honoring military veterans. Both a federal and a state holiday in all states, it is usually observed on November 11. This is the day seen as the end of World War I. The first World War ended on November 11, 1918.
In 1954, President Dwight D. Eisenhower issued the first Veterans Day Proclamation. In 1971 the observance date changed. It wasn’t until 1975 that President Gerald Ford returned the annual observance of Veterans Day to its original date of November 11, beginning in 1978. Every generation, it seems, has its calls to arms and those who stand up and serve are due all the respect and thanks we can give them. So, thank a veteran today, and every day!
