Tuesday, November 11, 2008

Veteran's Day 2008


Image from FreeFoto.com

Today is Veterans Day, a U.S. Federal holiday.

This year marks the 90th anniversary of World War I, which was fought between 1914 and 1918. WWI ended upon the signing of a peace agreement between the Allied Nations and Germany this very day in 1918. Originally declared Armistice Day by President Wilson in 1919, the holiday was later changed to 'Veterans Day' by President Eisenhower in 1954.

It's a day to celebrate freedom, and sacrifice, and the heroic efforts of millions of men and women who have fought in wars and conflicts around the world, as well as those who have served in peacetime. We celebrate our fallen soldiers and living veterans with parades and memorial services, flags on veterans graves, and various events nationwide.

The following is an excerpt from President George W. Bush's 2008 Veterans Day Proclamation:

Our country is forever indebted to our veterans for their quiet courage and exemplary service. We also remember and honor those who laid down their lives in freedom's defense. These brave men and women made the ultimate sacrifice for our benefit. On Veterans Day, we remember these heroes for their valor, their loyalty, and their dedication. Their selfless sacrifices continue to inspire us today as we work to advance peace and extend freedom around the world.

I couldn't have said it better, myself.

4 comments:

Anonymous said...

Nice post honoring our soldiers :)

Amanda said...

Thanks, Maryann. The military has been such a huge part of my life--married to it, born of it, descended from it, and raised around it! They deserve recognition.

Unknown said...

The day Veteran's Day, just a few of the challenges that face members of our Armed Forces. However it is not just their military service that makes veterans special it is their continuing contribution to the fabric of our communities through the use of the skills they learned whilst in the Armed Forces that makes them unique. Thanks for the blog.
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Jbsjohn

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Amanda said...

Nicely put, jbsjohn.

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