Tuesday, November 11, 2008

The Eleventh Hour of the Eleventh Day

November 11, 1919: President Wilson proclaims the first Armistice Day with the following words: "To us in America, the reflections of Armistice Day will be filled with solemn pride in the heroism of those who died in the country’s service and with gratitude for the victory, both because of the thing from which it has freed us and because of the opportunity it has given America to show her sympathy with peace and justice in the councils of the nations…" The original concept for the celebration was for the suspension of business for a two minute period beginning at 11 A.M., with the day also marked by parades and public meetings.
On June 1, 1954: President Eisenhower signs legislation changing the name of the legal holiday from Armistice Day to Veteran’s Day to include those who served during World War II and the Korean Conflict.
Just as Memorial Day offers us the opportunity to celebrate the lives of those that made the ultimate sacrifice in support of their country, Veterans Day allows us to thank all who have served in the armed services during times of war and the all too rare times of peace.
To all of my brothers and sisters in arms, thank you. My appreciation grows with time.

2 comments:

CiaoBella! said...

Here's to you, bro. And to Ross. And to Tom. Semper Fi, Tom would say. Nov. 10 was the Marine Corps birthday.

Anonymous said...

The 11th hour of the 11th day of the 11th month. We well remember our own but should never forget others. In Australia out of a population of 4.5 million they shipped out 400,000 soldiers between 1914-1918, 62,000 never came home. France lost 1.7 million from a population of 39 million, 4.3%, a staggering number. We should also remember the opposing soldiers, sailors and airmen who believed what they were doing was their duty to country as well. All become equal as the years pass.