We have Memorial Day to remember those that died in war for us. Today we honor all those still living who served for us.

First, a little history. Veterans Day, formerly known as Armistice Day, was originally set as a U.S. legal holiday to honor the end of hostilities for World War I. The end of hostiities officially took place on the 11th hour of the 11th day of the 11th month of 1918. Yet the war was not officially over until about six months later.

In legislation passed in 1938, November 11 was "dedicated to the cause of world peace and to be hereafter celebrated and known as 'Armistice Day."

As such, this new legal holiday honored World War I veterans. In 1954, after having been through another world war and the Korean War, the 83rd U.S. Congress amended the Act of 1938 by striking out the word "Armistice" and inserting the word "Veterans."

With the approval of this legislation on June 1, 1954, Nov. 11 became a day to honor American veterans of all wars.

Veteran’s Day is not a day to be wrapped up in bunting and commemorated as if it were the Fourth of July. Just like that day, our national colors have a prominent place in its observance.

The distinction has to do with what we are celebrating. Not a glorious beginning of a nation, but to those that served that nation with honor, humility and grace.

These efforts should be observed and remembered with solemnity, reverence and thankfulness.

Veterans Day is the day we dedicate to them. To remember those who served in defense of this country and the ideals for which this country stands.

We may want, therefore, some drape of patriotism ... some nod toward a higher motive more than mere circumstance ... but not too much ... lest we trivialize the individual sacrifice each has made.
War should not be the occupation of humankind. To ensure that it is not ... to ensure that it does not touch every household and every living being ... many answered the call to serve ... they chose, or were sometimes required, to live in a manner which brought them all in harm's way. And to that harm, many fell.

Thus, perhaps, we should leave the understanding of the sacrifice in God's hands. Only He can know the full measure of what was lost and what was gained.

Our task is not to validate the sacrifice all of our veterans have made, but to acknowledge it.

To embrace it.

To remember that it was made.

To remember the peace that was purchased by these brave men and women.

To all my fellow veterans, my deepest and heartfelt thanks from a grateful citizen. My thoughts and prayers are with you and your families.

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