Celebrating Valor And Virtue With Veteran’s Day

Sean Wesley

The Signal

Every Veteran’s Day, the United States honors its patriots. As we enter this time of thanksgiving, let us remember the true essence of the day to pay tribute to our nation’s heroes.

World War I, known as “The Great War” at the time, ended June 28, 1919, when the Treaty of Versailles was signed. However, actual warfare had already halted seven months before when Germany and the Allied nations agreed upon an armistice. This occurred on the 11thhour of the 11th day of the 11th month, and after the war, President Woodrow Wilson recognized this day as Armistice Day to reflect on pride and gratitude for those who fought and died for victory of the war.

After World War II and the Korean War, President Dwight Eisenhower proclaimed the day as Veteran’s Day in 1954 to honor all veterans of all wars fought for the freedoms of this nation. After some moving around with the date that Veteran’s Day was officially recognized, the day returned to its historic roots in 1978 after President Gerald Ford changed the observance back to Nov. 11, regardless of which day of the week it falls.

Today we celebrate Veteran’s Day to pay homage and give gratitude to all veterans who have proudly and selflessly served our nation to protect our freedoms and our interests, and who have sacrificed for our way of life. With the ongoing conflicts in Iraq and Afghanistan, it is crucial to show support for our brothers and sisters in arms. These men and women of honor have rightfully earned our respect for their contributions towards the price of our freedom and security, and we should all gratefully remember what they have given for us, both past and present.

Take this Veteran’s Day to remember and give thanks for the duties performed in valor and virtue by our soldiers in the field, at home and those who have once served.