This significant holiday has roots back to the Great War, where the original holiday, Armistice Day was created. It is significant to celebrate those who have answered our nations call in times of need. This request and duty is taken with the intent of knowing that the outcome can result in paying the ultimate sacrifice. It is a great war to honor those in your life and community who have spent their years in selfless service to their nations call. Regardless of current affiliations, the work and stress related to military work pushes anyone to their limits. This is a day that we can honor those who have gone through the effort of their good years.
Veterans Day has always been a significant day in history, as well as personal and family connections.
Many families and non-military families love to associate themselves with their honorable family members that served well in times of need. There is a feeling of pride ad great respect towards Servicemembers and their dedication to the service. If you keep pictures of your family, you will cherish the pictures of your loved ones wearing the uniform.
This day, internationally is celebrated as “Armistice Day” and this is what it means
Armistice Day was settled on November 11th, 1918. This significance was on the 11th month, the 11th day, at the 11th hour that Armistice was created as a means to end the war. The meaning of the day was to place a halt, (hence the word armistice) to stop all activities from all creating a ceases fire among the fighting parties. However, it wasn’t until the Treaty of Versailles signing on June 28, 1919 that marked the official end of World War I.
When did Armistice Day change to Veterans Day?
Americans celebrate Veterans Day instead of Armistice Day because our non-profit organizations have lobbied heavily to make the name change. In the United States, legislation was passed to approve an act on May 13,1938 in order to make November 11 a legal federal holiday. This day continued to persist as Armistice Day. Moving forward many years, the lobbying of Veterans organization influence the 38th Congress to make adjustments to the day. President Dwight D. Eisenhower signed the legislation on June 1, 1954 to honor the veterans going forward.
The most significant “thank you” day of the year
This is a day where the ‘red poppy’ is given to honor our former veterans, and those who are still with us. Since it is federally recognized, may incentives are offered to our Veterans in order to honor them and show great hospitality with their families too. Many other events including parades, speeches, and memorials are dedicated to these heroes that have chosen to represent our country.
I enjoy seeing the large amount of people on social media that connect with their Veteran family. The stories of heroism, the connection to friends, and the honor where they connect with those whom have served. This includes images of them in uniform, and a collection of medals, honors, and regalia are often handed down in their honor. If you really want to show a good thank you, they might even want to receive more than the regular accolade of, “thank you for your service”. Honestly, most of them like it, but they might want a bit extra time to have a genuine feeling of gratitude.
Veterans and their responses to service
Veterans still take respect for the day. There is a shared understanding that the day gives the opportunity to remember former and current veterans to meet with each other and promote wellness amongst each other. However, some veterans still struggle with some hardships from service. When you meet one of these veterans, remember to make them feel welcome at home and they have a place in their community.
If you are international, is this a Holiday that you celebrate?
The hardship of war is not easy on any one family. Since the day is a celebration of halting the conflict, we find this a moment as a halt for peace. If you celebrate it as Armistice Day, what are some normal traditions that you experience that could be different than how Americans honor this day. Is this a day where you find connections in those of this honor? Are you honoring the peace? Let us know how you celebrate this date.
Closing Thoughts
Having family members that have served is an exciting memory, if not a retelling of stories down to the next generations. We remember Plato’s words, “Only the dead have seen the end of war,” and we know of Veterans who remember those who have faced these extremes. The hardship, the stress, and the time given to this task is never easy on their overall well-being. You can thank a Vet for their service, but they will want to feel welcome and accepted for having to face these extremes.
I understand that this day is unique worldwide, but to not find this honor is a challenge. If you know of a Veteran that is struggling, lend a listening ear, and ask them about their service time. For those facing a personal crisis of identity, let them know the Suicide Hotline at 1(800) 273-8255 is responsive 24/7 to anyone struggling with thoughts of self-harm. If you are a Veteran in need of help, get out, enjoy the day with the perks of support from your community, have a conversation, and allow yourself to talk about your experiences to others.
