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November 11th, 2010
The origin of Veteran’s Day can be traced all the way back to
the end of World War One, which took place on the 11th
hour of November 11th, 1918. Before this holiday was
given the name Veteran’s Day it was referred to as Armistice
Day. This was because it was originally intended to be a day to
honor the veterans of World War One. However, World War One was
not “the war to end all wars” as many throughout the war-torn
nations would have hoped.
Only a few decades later Europe, Africa, the Middle East and
many other parts of the world would find themselves enveloped by
another world war, World War Two. It would take another decade
following the end of World War Two before the United State
Congress would amend the Act of 1938, thus changing the name of
Armistice Day to Veteran’s Day. It is under this revised name,
which we have honored America’s veterans to this very day!
On this day, every year Americans throughout this nation honor
those brave Americans who have served our country in some
capacity, and some of whom “gave
the last full measure
of devotion” to preserve the freedoms and liberties we sometime
take for granted. It is for this reason that we should all take
time to honor our veterans in some way. Either by attending a
Veteran’s Day ceremony, contributing to the USO, or even
something as simple as saying “Thank You.”
It is very difficult to quantify how significant of an impact
those two words can have in the life of a veteran. The
challenges and trials which many of these veterans faced
hopefully none of us will ever have to experience, but in paying
tribute to them we honor the memory of those of have passed,
those who have served, and those who are currently serving.
In closing, I would ask that all of you not think of this day as
just another day off from school/work or just another day on the
calendar, but an important day to “honor
those to whom honors are due”
our Veteran’s. On this day, take time to thank a veteran in some
way. You will never know how much in means to them.
Sincerely,
Michael A. Hernandez
State Master Councilor
New York DeMolay
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