“Without heroes, we are all plain people, and don’t know how far we can go.” — Bernard Malamud, American author
November 11th is a special day in this country. Also known as Armistice Day, Veterans Day is the one day a year in which we drop everything to say a sincere “Thank You” to our veterans and active duty military members.
What is Veterans Day
In 1919, President Woodrow Wilson proclaimed November 11 to be Armistice Day, the first federal holiday designed specifically to honor those who put their lives on the line to defend liberty and freedom in the United States.
“To us in America, the reflections of Armistice Day will be filled with lots of pride in the heroism of those who died in the country’s service and with gratitude for the victory,” said Wilson as he proclaimed the holiday. “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 date was chosen because it is the eleventh day of the eleventh month, a reference to the 11th-hour parable in the King James Bible.
Celebrating Veterans Day
You don’t have to be a veteran to celebrate Veterans Day. Here are a few ways civilians can honor our vets:
- Serve: There’s no better way to recognize our veterans that to donate your time to help out a nonprofit organization that supports veterans.
- Donate: Don’t have the time? Here’s a list of veteran nonprofits can could use your charitable contributions.
- Make a connection: There’s a good chance that one of your co-workers, schoolmates or neighbors is a veteran. Take some time on Veterans Day to connect with these individuals and say “Thanks” in person.
- Spend time: If you have a veteran in your family, make a point to spend time with them.
- Fly a flag: If nothing else, show your thanks by flying your American flag this Veterans Day.
Everything we enjoy in this country was made possible thanks to a veteran. Their service and sacrifice to our country are next to none. So, while you’re out enjoying your day this Veterans Day, remember it’s all thanks to a vet.
