Veterans Day: Show gratitude for their service
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No one alive today remembers the eleventh hour of the eleventh day of the eleventh month in 1918 that inspired Armistice Day to commemorate the end of World War I. For that matter, the numbers are dwindling of those who remember the events of World War II and the Korean War, which sparked the evolution of Armistice Day to Veterans Day -- a day to appreciate all veterans.
Honoring those who gave some AND those who gave all, Veterans Day is an important reminder to the rest of us of just how much we owe the men and women who have served in the U.S. military. The U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs calls it "A celebration to honor America's veterans for their patriotism, love of country, and willingness to serve and sacrifice for the common good."
Yes, military service demands sacrifice. Some bear obvious scars. Some bear scars the rest of us will never see. And some gave everything for their country -- for their families, their communities ... for us.
Because he knew firsthand what military service meant for a person, President Dwight D. Eisenhower, in 1954, proclaimed that "In order to insure proper and widespread observance of this anniversary, all veterans, all veterans' organizations, and the entire citizenry will wish to join hands in the common purpose."
That purpose was recognizing, remembering, celebrating and honoring those who served.
Today, there are a few wreath-laying ceremonies, maybe a parade or two. Some people get a day off work. Is that enough?
Do the veterans (and their families) in your community know how grateful you are for their service and sacrifice?
Try to convey your gratitude to them -- on Veterans Day, and whenever you encounter them.
Given everything they have done for us; it's the least we can do.
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"As we express our gratitude, we must never forget that the highest appreciation is not to utter words, but to live by them." ‒ President John F. Kennedy