This Saturday, November 11th, we honor our veterans, more than 19 million men and women who have served in the U.S. military. This year Veterans Day falls on a weekend, which means that it will be observed on the nearest weekday, in this case, it will be Friday, November 10th.

Veterans Day originated as “Armistice Day” in November 1919, President Wilson proclaimed November 11 as the first commemoration of Armistice Day with the following words: “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…” Veterans Day marks the first anniversary of the end of World War 1. Congress originally passed a resolution to make it an annual observance in 1926, which was when it was given the name “Armistice Day.” The name was originally given when the war ended and ceremonies occurred throughout Europe and France, where unknown soldiers were buried in each nation’s highest place of honor to signify the focal point of reverence for America’s veterans. The memorial gestures all took place on November 11, giving recognition to the end of the war on the 11th hour of the 11th day of the 11th month.

Now, almost a century later, there are fewer and fewer veterans, and many people, a part of the younger generation, don’t even know a veteran. However, there are multiple veterans at Apex High School, including our very own Coach Oglesby. Veterans are crucial as they protect our freedom, provide us with a way to learn about our history, and risk their lives for people they have never met. They are strong and full of courage, strength, and dedication for their country, and deserve to be recognized. Veterans Day is an opportunity to publicly commemorate the contributions of living veterans and to show appreciation toward them. So what can you do to show your appreciation for veterans? While Veterans Day is often a reminder of veterans lost in battle, it is primarily a tribute to America’s living veterans and should be observed as more of a celebration than as a somber day. By doing something as simple as sending a card or thanking them for their service, you are reminding our veterans that they are valued and appreciated. If you know any veterans in your local community, don’t forget to wish them a happy Veterans Day and remember that even the smallest acts speak volumes and can show them that they are valued.