One hundred years ago today, the country celebrated its first Armistice Day to honor those who fought in the Great War and celebrate the signing of the armistice to end hostilities at the eleventh hour on the eleventh day of the eleventh month.
From the All Veterans Memorial Park website, ” Veterans Day was first organized and celebrated in Emporia [Kansas] in 1953. Kansas Congressman Ed Rees, also an Emporian, then took King’s proposal to Congress, and President Dwight D. Eisenhower, also of Kansas, signed the bill proclaiming November 11 as Veterans Day. The first nationwide observance of Veterans Day was on November 11, 1954.”
We owe our lives and freedom to those men and women who have served and continue to serve. The honor we give you is heartfelt and passionate, but it is insignificant compared to what you have done for us. Thank you. Thank you for your sacrifice. And thank you for keeping my family safe.
Happy Veterans Day