President Wilson proclaimed in November 1919 as the first commemoration of Armistice Day. The original intention for this day was to celebrate with parades and public meetings, and recognize the heroism of those who died in the country’s service.
World War I officially ended when the Treaty of Versailles was signed on June 28, 1919 in France. According to www.va.gov, the fighting ceased seven months earlier when an armistice between the Allied Nations and Germany went into effect on the eleventh hour of the eleventh day of the eleventh month. On November 11, 1918 for that reason, it was known as the end of “the war to end all wars.”
The United States Congress recognized the end of World War I with these words on June 4, 1926:
“Whereas the 11th of November 1918, marked the cessation of the most destructive, sanguinary, and far reaching war in human annals and the resumption by the people of the United States of peaceful relations with other nations, which we hope may never again be severed, and
Whereas it is fitting that the recurring anniversary of this date should be commemorated with thanksgiving and prayer and exercises designed to perpetuate peace through good will and mutual understanding between nations; and
Whereas the legislatures of twenty-seven of our States have already declared.”
November 11 became a legal holiday: Therefore be it Resolved by the Senate (the House of Representatives concurring), that the President of the United States is requested to issue a proclamation calling upon the officials to display the flag of the United States on all Government buildings on November 11 and inviting the people of the United States to observe the day in schools and churches, or other suitable places, with appropriate ceremonies of friendly relations with all other peoples.”
The day was originally dedicated to the cause of world peace and to honor World War I veterans, but after World War II, the 83 Congress, with the push from the veterans service organizations, amended the Act of 1938 by replacing the word “Armistice” with the word “Veterans.” On June 1, 1954, November 11 became Veterans Day in honor of American veterans of all wars. According to www.va.gov, regardless of what day of the week the holiday falls on, the holiday is still observed on November 11.
“The restoration of the observance of Veterans Day to November 11 not only preserves the historical significance of the date, but helps focus attention on the important purpose of Veterans Day: A celebration to honor America’s veterans for their patriotism, love of country, and willingness to serve and sacrifice for the common good.”
Robert Mickens, a United States Air Force retiree, said he wanted to join the Air Force because he wanted to change his direction in life. “It was my way to change my lifestyle and to help benefit me and my family,” Mickens said.
He said he honors veterans by thanking them for their services to the United States. Mickens said it’s important for society to acknowledge veterans because the country wouldn’t be the same without their efforts.
“Veterans Day is to pay tribute to all the service members, who have served our country. It is important because we can pay tribute to all the people who sacrificed their lives to make America is—without them, our country wouldn’t be what it is,” said Mickens. Society should pay homage to people who serviced our country; they should recognize them for the contributions they have made. We should honor them and be thankful that they were here for us, and that they are here for us.
Sinclair will be celebrating Veterans Day by honoring veterans throughout the “Veterans Appreciation Week.” The Dental Program is showing their appreciation by giving away a free toothbrush with proof of military affiliation; the Automotive Department is offering five free non-synthetic oil changes with a reservation on Monday, Nov. 9, Tuesday, Nov. 10 and Thursday, Nov. 12; there will be a Veteran Appreciation Luncheon at the Tartan Terrace on Tuesday, Nov. 10, as well a Remembrance Walk on Thursday, Nov. 12; the Veteran Service Department, located in Building 10, room 323 is giving students and faculty the chance to sign a thank you note for all veterans, as well as the chance to share a story and photo on their Veteran Story Board, which will be displayed throughout the week; the week of celebrations will end on Friday, Nov. 13 with popsicles and fun facts about veterans history.
Gabrielle Sharp
Executive Editor