On November 18, 1918, an armistice, or temporary cessation of hostilities, was declared between the Allied nations and Germany in the First World War, known than as "the Great War."
Commemorated as Armistice Day starting the following year, November 11th became a legal federal holiday in the United States in 1938. In the aftermath of World War II and the Korean War, Armistice Day became Veterans Day, a holiday dedicated to American veterans of all wars.
While Memorial Day, which is held on the 4th Monday of May honors American servicemembers who died in service to their country or as a result of injuries incurred during battle, Veterans Day pays tribute to all American veterans--living or dead--but especially gives thanks to living veterans who served their country honorably during war or peacetime.
So, while we may disagree about political direction and which candidates get to represent us in the Government, it's difficult to disagree that we live in liberty and freedom in this great nation, thanks in large part to a veteran.
The unselfish sacrifice of America's soldiers, sailors, airmen and Marines will never be fully appreciated by the rest of us who go about our lives under the constant vigilance and protection of these young heroes.
On November 11, please take the time to thank a veteran for his or her service.
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