History always gives us a good perspective not only where we’ve been but what we have today and what our future holds tomorrow. Let’s keep that in mind as we celebrate Veterans Day on Monday, November 11, 2013.
There is great significance to the fact that Veterans Day falls on November 11. Veterans Day, or Armistice Day and Remembrance Day as it’s referred to in other parts of the world, is observed to mark the end of World War I which formally ended at the 11th hour of the 11th day of the 11th month of 1918 when the armistice with Germany took effect.
When President Woodrow Wilson first proclaimed Armistice Day for November 11, 1919, he said, "To us in America, the reflections of Armistice Day will be filled with solemn pride in the heroism of those who died in the country's service and with gratitude for the victory, both because of the thing from which it has freed us and because of the opportunity it has given America to show her sympathy with peace and justice in the councils of the nations.”
There is no more special group of Americans among us than our veterans. They literally put their lives on the line to defend and protect the many freedoms we enjoy as individuals and as an RMEF family. To them – many of whom are family members, friends, RMEF volunteers, staffers and members – we thank you for your dedication to and sacrifices for our great nation.
Gratefully,
RMEF President/CEO