Veteran’s Day. An official United States public holiday, observed annually on November 11. This day honors military veterans; persons who have served in the United States Armed Forces. Sometimes this day is confused with Memorial Day (which honors those who have died in military service). There’s also Armed Forces Day, occurring in May, which honors those who are currently serving in the U.S. Military.
On October 12, 1954, Eisenhower published a proclamation in the Fedral Register, instructing citizens to recongnize Veteran’s Day on November 11. He wrote:
“On that day, let us solemnly remember the sacrifices of all those who fought so valiantly, on the seas, in the air, and on foregin shores, to preserve our heritage of freedom, and let us reconsecrate ourselves to the task of promoting an enduring peace so that their efforts shall not have been in vain.”
In September of 1975, Congress passed a bill changing the observation of Veteran’s Day back to November 11 where it has remained for 47 years.
Much has changed in the 98 years since Armistice Day was first observed. We honor servicemen, servicewomen, and we also thank their families for their sacrifices as well. Our wars are fought with drones, not cannons, and it seems that the war to end all wars hasn’t really ended war at all. Men and women have fought and died all over the globe.
Yet, today we may pause. We may celebrate. We honor. We say “thank you.” But, we still have veterans dealing with the return home, invisible wounds, and scars of war. We can honor veterans in many ways. Becoming informed, having awareness of the issues some of our veterans face. You don’t have to be connected with the VA, you don’t need a lot other than a passionate heart and a listening ear.
The return to civilian life can be challenging. Supporting our veterans (though an organization, taking action, volunteering), there are many ways to ease the challenge, but sometimes listening and learning about Veterans can help with the transition.
Families that have loved ones who have served or are serving sacrifice too. They appreciate support for their family, and their veteran. Everyone in this world needs a support system, and these families have been challenged in ways they never thought possible. While our support system is a little different since Sam is retired and home, we are still thankful for our group of friends who have been there and answered phone calls, text messages, listened to our Marco Polo messages because communication is key. We’ve shared stories about deployments, post-deployment, and retirement.
I’m thankful for my veteran and the connections I have made to other veterans and their families near and far. I appreciate the support they have given our family.
Today I honor Veterans (but also honor them, and their families every single day).
These are some of my favorite photos. Starting from the top left: Sam with a boy in Iraq, a very favorite picture of a golden flag on Sam’s deck, Sam at the Opry in the Americana dressing room with Memphis, Sam and I celebrating the 4th of July, my favorite picture of us at home, and Sam in uniform. A small collection of some very special moments.