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A Veterans’ Day Salute To All U.S. Veterans
This solemn holiday, originally known as Armistice Day, officially declared by President Woodrow Wilson one year after the signing of the Treaty of Versailles, the peace treaty which brought World War I to an end, was to be a day in which Americans would reflect “with solemn pride in the heroism of those who died in the country’s service and with gratitude for the victory, both because of the thing from which it has freed us and because of the opportunity it has given America to show her sympathy with peace and justice in the councils of the nations…” The idea for the observance was to stop business affairs for two minutes beginning at 11 A.M. — the hour the treaty had been signed. Parades and public gatherings would also make the day distinctive.However, nearly ninety years after the first Veterans’ Day observances were held we find the day marked with special sales events for everything from furniture to clothing, Ipods and cars. There is no two minutes of silence as the wheels of commerce turn. Many employers do not even give the day as a company holiday. If it were not for the fact this year the date comes on Sunday a goodly amount of Americans would not have the day off.
We think it suits the times that the day designated to honor those who have sacrificed the most for the nation is almost regarded as just another day. Vets are among those who are disrespected daily.
Many veterans are homeless. The veterans of the current war return to find they can not receive the benefits promised to them, especially the vets who have been injured on behalf of the country.
Sadly, it has always been this way. The government believes those who fight our wars are expendable without compensation. Consider the bloody demonstrations staged by former soldiers in order to receive the promised rewards for serving the country. It is up to us as citizens to help the returning soldiers, their widows and their children.
Remember that fact today when you watch the inevitable hoopla at the various NFL games in honor of the day. Remember these facts as you listen to the politicians speak so eloquently of the courage of our fighting men and women who battle our country’s enemies real and perceived, domestic and foreign. Is that political speaker a genuine supporter of veterans and their right to compensation?
We believe a truly grateful nation will remember on today and the other 364 days as well. Make everyday Veterans’ Day
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