“Some people live an entire life and wonder if they have ever made a difference in the world. A veteran doesn’t have that problem.” Ronald Regan
Veterans Day is an opportunity to thank and honor those who have fought to protect our freedom. We honor those who served in the military in both wartime and peacetime. While Veterans Day is largely intended to thank living veterans for their service, we should also remember those who lost their lives. Special thoughts should go to those families who lost a loved one whose remains never returned to American soil.
On Nov. 11, 1918, the Germans signed the Armistice and an order was issued for all firing to cease, ending World War I. In 1938, Congress passed a bill decreeing that each Nov. 11 “shall be dedicated to the cause of world peace and… hereafter celebrated and known as Armistice Day.” President Franklin D. Roosevelt made the day a legal holiday in the District of Columbia and, for 16 years, the United States celebrated Armistice Day with ceremonies, parades and religious services.
Following World War II, leaders of veterans’ groups supported a change to make Nov. 11 a time to honor all who had fought in various American wars, not just in World War I. The name was officially changed to Veterans Day by Act of Congress on May 24, 1954.
The Voorhees Veterans Wall of Honor, located in Town Hall, is a lasting tribute to the local men and women who have proudly served our country. There are now 437 veterans honored on our Wall.
Veterans are a treasured part of our community. They are our parents, grandparents, brothers, sisters, sons and daughters. It is important to remember that the day celebrates those who have served and are still serving in the military. We should be grateful to veterans every day for protecting the freedom that we too often take for granted.
**The Hope Church Santa Arrival and Tree Lighting Ceremony will be held on Saturday, November 27, from 6-7PM. There will be live music, hot chocolate and cider, crafts for kids, and even a visit from Santa! Visit meethope.org for more info. Everyone is invited to kick off the holiday season together! HOPE Church is located at 700 Cooper Rd in Voorhees.
