The leaves have fallen, frost is on the ground, and we are about to turn back our clocks…which means Thanksgiving is just around the corner. But before we give thanks for our personal blessings, it is time to give thanks to our veterans.
Veteran’s Day, which takes place on Thursday, November 11, evolved from Armistice Day, which was proclaimed in 1919 by President Woodrow Wilson. An armistice is a formal agreement of warring parties to stop fighting, and this armistice ended World War I. It began on the 11th hour of the 11th day of the 11th month.
Not to be confused with Memorial Day, which is for remembering and honoring military personnel who died in the service of their country, Veterans Day is intended to thank all those who honorably served in the military in both war time and peace time. For without their sacrifices, we may still be celebrating the royal wedding, speaking German, or practicing a single religion.
These are the brave men and women who serve our country nobly, enduring hardships many of us can’t imagine. From the front lines around the world, to Cyber Command in Fort Meade MD, this well-oiled machine keeps the bad guys at bay so we can sleep soundly at night. Unfortunately, a great many of our veterans struggle to find jobs, housing or health care. While most of us will never step on a battlefield or fly a Boeing AH-64 Apache, we can certainly take the time to thank those who do, and perhaps do something extra to make their life a little easier.
Don’t know a veteran to thank? I bet you do. Currently there are approximately 18.2 million veterans living in the United States, which accounts for 7.6% of the population. So, chances are you interact with veterans on a regular basis. While the primary focus of Veterans Day is on the veterans, let us not forget about their families. Military spouses and their children endure a lifestyle that comes with its own unique challenges and sleepless nights. Military families often put their personal aspirations on hold so their service member can fulfill the oath they made to defend this great nation and our way of life.
It is with a great deal of appreciation and debt, that the staff at Saratoga TODAY offers a true heartfelt THANK YOU to all the veterans, in all the branches, as well as their families. Thank you for your sacrifice, your bravery, and the example you set for us all.
Today is for you! God Bless.
- Chad
