In the wake of events that took place at Ft. Hood, Texas, last week, an even greater significance has been placed on the day that honors our soldiers.
Last Thursday, 13 people, mostly military, were killed and 30 were injured when a gunman opened fire at a soldier's readiness center. The alleged shooter, an army psychiatrist, is believed to have been severely troubled. This tragedy is a reminder of the danger and constant stress that our service men and women are exposed to even when they are stationed on our own soil.
Contrary to what some may believe, military service is not merely an answer for those who have no choices in life. As evidenced by Pat Tillman, some people are guided by a belief system that guides them into service to their country.
Tillman, who had "everything going him", was an up-and-coming football superstar playing for the Arizona Cardinals, first as a linebacker and later as a safety. In the aftermath of the September 11 attacks, he turned down a $3.6 million contract from the Cardinals to enlist in the Army to defend his country.
After serving multiple tours of combat Tillman's life was ended by friendly fire in the mountains of Afghanistan.
It was to honor the bravery of soldiers like Pat Tillman as well as thousands of others, that Veteran's Day was originally enacted.
Woodrow Wilson proclaimed the first such celebration on November 11, 1919 with the first commemoration of the official end of World War I. The original concept was for a day to be observed by parades and public gatherings.
On May 3, 1938, an Act was approved to make the 11th of November into a legal holiday to be dedicated to the cause of world peace. The day was to be known as "Armistice Day" and was primarily to honor the veterans of World War I. In 1954 when World War II caused the largest mobilization of soldiers, sailors, Marines and airmen in history, the 83rd Congress amended the Act of 1938, striking out the word "Armistice" and putting in its place the word, "Veterans." And, finally, on June 1, 1954, November 11th became the official day to honor American veterans of all wars.
Most of us will never have to realize the kind of bravery it takes to put oneself in harm's way in order to defend a nation, but on this day we can show our appreciation by honoring those who do.
Copyright 2009 - Claudette Millette, Broker, Owner, TheBuyersCounsel - 800-392-1446 - E-mail
Ashland, Holliston, Hopkinton, Natick, Newton, Northborough, Framingham, Shrewsbury, Sherborn, Southborough, Sudbury, Wayland, Westborough
Comments (16)Subscribe to CommentsComment