Every year, on November 11th, as Americans we get to do something very special. This United States holiday honors ALL military Veterans who served our country in the armed forces. It remembers those who served in war or peace, yet is intended to thank all our living veterans for their sacrifices.
Formerly known as Armistice Day, November 11th was chosen as World War 11 ended on that very same day back in 1918.
When writing the book, “All That I Had” I gained so much valuable information just by talking with my mother, Catherine Corse. She shared about her experiences growing up during World War 11. Her brother, Orval, served in the US Army and to help support the war efforts, Catherine and her father volunteered as air wardens. Wearing gear of helmets and arm bands, they patrolled the neighborhoods after dark.
Laws required that “Blackout Regulations” were strictly enforced. This prevented enemy aircraft from seeing even a glimmer of light.
In those days, there was a deep admiration for the country. Citizens showed honor for those serving and for the people working at home to keep the country going. It was their duty to show respect for what was being asked and working together, all windows and doors were covered with blackout material from the government.
Although these regulations were a disruption, people did what they were asked. They knew it would benefit not just themselves but others as well. The appreciation for those serving far outweighed this small inconvenience to themselves.
This story is a reminder to all of us to make an effort to think outside of our own means and needs and to remember our Veterans, on November 11th as well as throughout the year.
You might be saying, what can I do to support these special men and women?
Here are some suggestions:
- Hang an American flag out.
- Ask a Veteran about their time in the military, and Really Listen to their answer.
- Teach a child what it means to be a Veteran. Make a thank you poster with them and put it in the window.
- Say a prayer for those who are serving.
- Observe a moment of silence.
- Write or send a letter to someone who’s currently in the military.
- Visit the graveside of a Veteran.
These are just a few of many ideas! You can do activities for our Veterans at least once a month, or honor them any day throughout the year! By letting them know how much they mean, you will be blessed with a wonderful feeling of doing something special for someone.
But watch out, it’s contagious! (In a good way!) Once you start it will not only put a smile on their faces but yours as well.
Poppies, a small red flower, is the official symbol of veterans Day. Inspired by the World War 1 poem: “In Flanders Fields” it was the first flower to appear in the soil from soldier’s graves.
If you are out on November 11th, you may see the American Legion selling poppies as a patriotic significance. On this day, we’ll all look good in red as we thank and remember the many folks who helped make our country so very special.
Kathy Ann Corse