By: Caitlyn McGregor, Contributing Writer
Veterans Day, observed annually on Nov. 11, is not only a day off from work or school but also a reminder to honor and express gratitude towards the brave people who have served in the military.
Veterans Day raises awareness about the defense of our nation and highlights the contributions and challenges faced by these remarkable individuals.
The origins of Veterans Day can be traced back to World War I, when an armistice was signed between the Allied forces and Germany, ending one of the deadliest conflicts in history. This truce was the catalyst for what would later become Armistice Day, a day to commemorate the end of World War I and to honor the soldiers who fought and died in the war.
The first celebration using the term “Veterans Day” occurred in Birmingham, Alabama, in 1947.
According to an article published by the U.S. Department of Veteran’s Affairs, Raymond Weeks, a World War II veteran, organized “National Veterans Day,” which included a parade and other festivities to honor all veterans. The event was held on Nov. 11, designated as Armistice Day.
Later, U.S. Representative Edward Rees of Kansas proposed a bill changing Armistice Day to Veterans Day. In 1954, Congress passed the bill President Eisenhower signed, proclaiming Nov. 11 as Veterans Day.
Raymond Weeks received the Presidential Citizens Medal from President Reagan in November 1982. Local parades and ceremonies are now an annual event celebrated nationwide to honor this special day.
A law passed in 1968 changed the national commemoration of Veterans Day to the fourth Monday in October. It soon became apparent, however, that Nov. 11 was a date of historic significance to many Americans.
This is because it was on the 11 hour of the 11 day of the 11 month in 1918 that the Armistice was signed. Therefore, in 1978, Congress returned the observance to its traditional date.
Veterans Day is a crucial reminder of the importance of recognizing and supporting our veterans, as it allows citizens to connect with and express gratitude to the people who have selflessly dedicated their lives to defending our country.
The continued observance of Veterans Day underscores the need to provide resources, care, and support for those who have served, enhancing access to healthcare, employment opportunities, and community integration initiatives.
It is also essential not just to acknowledge the veterans but also the family members of veterans. The family also must go through the challenges of not having their loved ones around and knowing the types of danger they may be in.
So, this year, as we do every year, make sure you thank a veteran for their service. Every veteran deserves recognition, and we thank all our veterans and active-duty service members.
