"To us in America the reflections of Armistice Day will be filled 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..."So said President Wilson on November 11, 1919, the first commemoration of Armistice Day (now called Veterans Day).
World War I, known back then as "The Great War," officially ended with the signing of the Treaty of Versailles on June 28, 1919. However, the fighting had been over since 11:00 AM on November 11, 1918 when the Allied nations and Germany agreed to an armistice (ceasefire). The U.S. Congress officially recognized the end of World War I with a resolution passed on June 4, 1926.In 1938, an act of Congress made November 11th an annual legal holiday. It was called Armistice Day, and primarily honoured the veterans of World War I. In 1954 the act was amended to change "Armistice" to "Veterans" in order to honour the men and women who served in all wars.
There is a difference between Memorial Day and Veterans Day. Memorial Day honours military members who died in service to their country or as a result of injuries incurred during battle. Deceased veterans are also remembered on Veterans Day, but the day is set aside to thank and honour living veterans who served honourably in the military - in wartime or peacetime.So be sure to thank a veteran today!
A freelance writer for over ten years, Linda Matchett also writes historical fiction. She is currently seeking a publisher for her series about war correspondent Ruth Brown. Visit her at www.lindashentonmatchett.com
