Veterans Day, observed on November 11, honors American veterans who have served in the U.S. Armed Forces, including the Air Force, Army, Coast Guard, Marine Corps, Navy, and Space Force. The date marks the end of World War I in 1918 and was initially established as Armistice Day, later becoming Veterans Day in 1954 to celebrate all veterans. With approximately 19 million veterans currently in the U.S., the day serves as an opportunity for reflection and gratitude. Veterans like Mark Lucas and Susan Temme express pride in their service, while also acknowledging the sacrifices of those who faced greater dangers. To show appreciation on Veterans Day, civilians can participate in parades, write thank-you letters, wear red poppies, or invite veterans to speak in educational settings. Overall, the day encourages acts of gratitude towards those who have served.
Veterans Day Salutes Those Who Served
Wave a flag, write a letter, or applaud a parade…there are lots of ways to celebrate Veterans Day. But they all send the same message: "Thank you for your service." On November 11, Americans honor veterans and show appreciation for their patriotism and commitment.
Who, exactly, are the VIPs this holiday hails? American veterans are people who formerly served active duty in the U.S. Armed Forces. The armed forces consist of the Air Force, Army, Coast Guard, Marine Corps, Navy, and Space Force. There are about 19 million veterans living in the country today.
Veterans Day falls on the 11th day of the 11th month. The unforgettable date has historical significance. At 11 a.m. on November 11 in 1918, fighting ended at the close of the Great War, which we now call World War I. In 1919, the U.S. president, Woodrow Wilson, memorialized the halt of the hostilities by declaring the one-year anniversary to be Armistice Day. In 1938, it became a legal holiday devoted to paying tribute to veterans of World War I. Although that conflict had been called "the war to end all wars," others followed. The United States fought in World War II from 1941 to 1945 and the Korean War from 1950 to 1953. In 1954 Armistice Day officially became Veterans Day. It's a time to celebrate all American veterans.
For today's veterans, November 11 is a meaningful opportunity for reflection. United States Air Force (USAF) veteran Mark Lucas said he feels "both proud and humbled" by the occasion. "It was an honor to have been in the Air Force, to have served my country voluntarily knowing that I was willing to give my life to preserve the freedom Americans hold so dear," he said. Yet Lucas remains deferential. He's mindful that other veterans faced greater dangers and suffered lasting injuries, "making my service and sacrifices feel minimal by comparison."
Former Air Force Captain Susan Temme agrees. She feels the true heroes are those who lost their lives serving their country. "They gave the ultimate sacrifice and should always be remembered and honored on this day," she said. "Veterans Day also gives me a strong sense of pride knowing that I was part of something much, much greater than myself. I was able to put on that uniform every day and know that my contribution to the USAF mattered both in peacetime and in wartime."
As Lucas and Temme pointed out, veterans have done a lot for Americans. On Veterans Day, civilians get a chance to do something for them. There are many different ways you can pay your respects and convey an attitude of gratitude.
Attend a parade or other Veterans Day event, or even volunteer to help organize one.
Write thank you letters to veterans or active service members.
Wear a red crepe paper poppy. Some veteran organizations sell them. Red poppies traditionally signify respect for veterans.
Invite a veteran to speak in your classroom. Some are willing to answer thoughtful questions about their knowledge and experiences.
However you decide to mark the occasion, your efforts are likely to be appreciated by veterans. Mark Lucas said, "I'm grateful that the country takes a little time to acknowledge its veterans." For more than a century, the memorable double-eleven date has been dedicated to saluting those who served.
Objective Summary for Veterans Day Salutes To Those Who Served
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