Today is Veterans Day, first created to remember those who fought in the First World War and later expanded to include all living veterans of American conflicts.
The Federal act that officially designated Veterans Day in 1938 declared that November 11 would also be “dedicated to the cause of world peace.”
Unlike Memorial Day (the last Monday in May) or Labor Day (the first Monday in September), Veterans day never moves. It’s always November 11.
The U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs estimates that there are 25 million living veterans, from World War One up through the current Iraq War. The VA says that about eight percent of those veterans are women.
How can you celebrate Veterans Day? If you have a relative or family friend who was in combat, you can ask them to tell you their stories. You can also visit the local VA hospital, where some of the patients have no family nearby. You can bring them flowers, flags, books, or just your company. Again, ask them to talk about their experience. If you like, you can thank them for defending your country.
You can also write a letter or send a package to our troops fighting in Iraq and Afghanistan via AnySoldier.com.
Whether you talk to a grandparent or a complete stranger, the most important thing is to tell them that they aren’t forgotten, and that their service is appreciated.
Other ways to show your appreciation:
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