Ever since 1926 when Armistice Day legislation made the 11th hour of the 11th day in the 11th month a national observance to honor World War I veterans, Americans have paid tribute to our troops on what is known today as Veterans Day.
This year on this day, we should all be encouraged to remember the members of our own community who are overseas in Afghanistan as part of the 48th Brigade. We must also remember our military families, who sacrifice for our freedoms and protections as well. To communities like Baldwin County, where members are overseas, every day should lend a show of support to military personnel and their families.
We must show our gratitude and appreciation by doing as well. Donate items for care packages, send a letter to a soldier, check in on a family member who may have a soldier overseas, volunteer at the veteran’s home. Listen to the stories of our older veterans, the history that they entail. Listen, and remember that these men and women answered the call to protect our freedoms and serve to honor peace and security as their mission all across the globe. It may seem small, but it’s the least any of us can do for the great sacrifice they have all paid.
Take time to attend today’s observance at the Georgia Veterans Memorial Cemetery and remember that while doing so means time away from work or the ins and outs of the day, the measure pales in comparison to the time and sacrifice of our soldiers and their families. It’s a small gesture, but so are most when in comparison, yet it’s the least we all can do.
There are perhaps few moments that bring forth the stark and often difficult realities military families face than in moments of great tragedy. A most recent example of this reality is the shooting tragedy at Fort Hood, Texas. Remember today the 13 lives lost at Fort Hood, their families and their loved ones. Remember also that the price of our military personnel’s sacrifice extends beyond the battlefields. Remember also the family of our fallen soldier, Staff Sgt. Alex French IV, his family and his children. Honoring our veterans requires no political stance or party. It simply requires us to express our thanks with humility and gratitude.
November is a month many of us take pause to give thanks. Today, give thanks to our veterans, and further the effort each and every day. As U.S. Pres. John F. Kennedy once said: “As we express our gratitude, we must never forget that the highest appreciation is not to utter words, but to live by them.”
