[Billie]

November 11, 2008 ~ Veterans Day

In 1921, an unknown World War I American soldier was buried in Arlington National Cemetery. This site, on a hillside overlooking the Potomac River and the city of Washington, became the focal point of reverence for America's veterans.

Similar ceremonies occurred earlier in England and France, where an unknown soldier was buried in each nation's highest place of honor (in England, Westminster Abbey; in France, the Arc de Triomphe). These memorial gestures all took place on November 11, giving universal recognition to the celebrated ending of World War I fighting at 11 a.m., November 11, 1918 (the 11th hour of the 11th day of the 11th month). The day became known as "Armistice Day".

Armistice Day officially received its name in America in 1926 through a Congressional resolution. It became a national holidiay 12 years later by similar Congressional action. If the idealistic hope had been realized that World War I was "the War to end all Wars," November 11 might still be called Armistice Day. But only a few years after the holiday was proclaimed, war broke out in Europe. Sixteen and one-half million Americans took part. Four hundred seven thousand of them died in service, more than 292,000 in battle.

Realizing that peace was equally preserved by veterans of WW II and Korea, Congress was requested to make this day an occasion to honor those who have served America in all wars. In 1954 President Eisenhower signed a bill proclaiming November 11 as Veterans Day.

We as Americas owe much to the brave men and women who have fought to preserve our freedom, and though we are thankful every day for their sacrifice, two special days have been set aside to honor them each year:

• Memorial Day honors the American Military who have died in their service for the country.
  
  
• Veterans Day is to appreciate all who have served their country, both alive and dead.

A law passed in 1968 changed the national commemoration of Veterans Day to the fourth Monday in October. It soon became apparent, however, that November 11 was a date of historic significance to many Americans. Therefore, in 1978 Congress returned the observance to its traditional date.

Every year the President of the United States urges All Americans to honor the commitment of our Veterans through appropriate public ceremonies. The focal point for official, national ceremonies for Veterans Day continues to be the memorial amphitheater built around the Tomb of the Unknowns. At 11 a.m. on November 11, a combined color guard representing all military services executes "Present Arms" at the tomb. The nation's tribute to its war dead is symbolized by the laying of a presidential wreath. The bugler plays "Taps." The rest of the ceremony takes place in the amphitheater.

God Bless our veterans on this day and all others. We owe you our gratitude and our respect, for without you America would not be the strong and free country we know and love.

[luvie]

Beautiful, Billie!

[Mama_Bear]

Beautiful tribute, beautifully done. Thank you, Billie. This is one of your very best!

God bless our veterans, each and every one!

[MEG33]

Oh, Billie..This is just wonderful..Thank you for honoring our Veterans so beautifully.

[Diver Dave]

Beautiful, Billie.

Thank You.

I’ll be back later with a picture of our Veteran’s Choir at yesterday’s church services. It was a humbling experience to join with vets from WWII through present day singing Eternal Father and Mansions of the Lord.

[DollyCali]

WONDERFUL PRESENTATION BILLIE!

Great content & great presentation!

[jaycee]

That is a glorious Veteran’s Day Tribute, Billie! I can tell you put some time into that one. I am so proud to honor our Veterans today. I’ve been searching this morning as usual but have to have breakfast now.

Thank You, Veterans! Every Day! And thank you, Billie!

[MEG33]

Land Of The Free Because Of The Brave

*Thank You Veterans*

Mansions Of The Lord ~ We Honor ~ We Remember
Good Morning To Amy's Place

[JustAmy]

Billie, Your Welcoming Post is absolutely beautiful.
Thank you for honoring our Veterans today and everyday.

God Bless America, Our President and Our Troops.

[Lady Jag]

Beautiful tribute, Billie.

[Lady Jag]

[Kitty Mittens]

Oh, that is So Beautiful, Billie, One of your Most Outstanding Ever!