November 11, 2021. “On that day let us solemnly recall the sacrifices made by all those who fought so valiantly on the seas and on foreign shores to preserve our heritage and freedom, and let’s resecrate ourselves to the task to promote and sustain peace so their efforts will not be in vain.”
– 1954, President Dwight D. Eisenhower, Veterans Day proclamation. 103 Years Later…
The 11th hour, 11th day, 11th month 1918 saw bugle calls signaling the ‘cease-fire’ that ended the First World War. (The official Armistice was signed that morning. For those who lived through it, WWI was “the Great War”, “the War to End All Wars”. Tragically, the world was engulfed in another conflict just two decades later. Today, 102 year after the end WWI, Americans celebrate the anniversary of the WWI Armistice with “Veterans Day”. It is also known in Canada as Remembrance Day. This solemn occasion is dedicated to all those who served in the military during war and peace. Despite the fact that more WWII veterans are dying each year, there are still 20.4 million veterans living in the United States. Today, take time to remember the soldiers, sailors, airmen who served their country with pride. Today, we remember that… “All gave one, and some gave all.” History of Veterans Day. James Peake, the former Secretary of Veterans Affairs, asked Americans to remember the 20.4 million veterans who are still living and those who have come before them. “While our thoughts are with the people in war zones today,” he said. Veterans Day is an opportunity for Americans pay respects to all those who answered the nation’s call to serve their country. We should remember combat veterans who have been seriously wounded on Veterans Day. These veterans are courageous and persevering in overcoming the long-lasting injuries they sustained in combat. Some of these soldiers lost limbs but volunteered to return for combat duty. This is true patriotism, and dedication beyond measure. More Veterans Day images are available at Dept. of Defense — Honoring our Veteran. National Veterans Day Ceremony
Each year, the Veterans Day National Ceremony takes place at Arlington National Cemetery on November 11, 2011. The ceremony begins precisely at 11:00 am with a wreath being laid at the Tomb of the Unknowns. It continues inside the Memorial Amphitheater where veterans’ organizations display their colors. This ceremony is meant to thank and honor all those who have served in the U.S. Armed Forces. The ceremony is also attended by major regional events and ceremonies throughout the country.
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