Veterans Day is a time to honor those who have or are currently serving to recognize their sacrifice. November 11 is the day that the nation takes to acknowledge all individuals who served, or are currently serving in any branch of the military; the Army, Navy, Air Force, Coast Guard, and Marines.
According to Britannica, Veterans day was initially named Armistice Day which first began November 11, 1919. 35 years after this was established, the holiday became known as Veterans Day. This change was made in hope to expand the honor to all veterans, not limited to only those who served in World War I.
Since then, this day has been celebrated every year as a day to respect and recognize all veterans. Kayleigh Kish is an active member in the Air Force and now also a Milford Police Officer. She was influenced to join because of her father who was a Marine.
Kish states, “Joining the military was one of the best things I ever did.”
Being in the military was not easy, but it helped her develop as a person. It also opened up opportunities for her such as making connections, going to college, and sparked her interest in traveling. However, it also caused her to feel lonely and made her miss the comforts of home.
Individuals in the military have devoted their time, energy, and hard work to protecting the country. They do this to ensure peace and freedom for all, not only themselves.
Army veteran Mr. David Doyle began his time in the Military in 1968 and saw this opportunity as a way to gain self reliance and to learn about who he was. He felt the service provided him with a different path of life.
Doyle states, “Things were very tough for me with education so I decided to join the military.”
Not only is Veterans Day a time to appreciate the dedication of those who have served, it is also a day to celebrate patriotism and love for the country. It is typically honored with parades, gatherings, and other celebrations. Some even show their support by hanging the American flag in honor to recognize the veterans and their commitment.
In Milford, veterans are recognized in many ways. For example, on November 11 the city held a wreath laying ceremony. In addition, on November 12 there was also a Veterans Day Parade held downtown by the city. This was done to show respect and care for our veterans. It is a priority to engage the community in honoring the city’s veterans.
At Foran, there is an assembly held every other year to remind the students of the importance of Veterans Day. In addition, the school has veterans who come into English and Social Studies classes every year to inform, and teach the students about their commitment.
Weston Clark, an active member in the Air Force, has faced many consequences because of his commitment to the military. Along with missing many of his children’s birthdays, and even the birth of his son, he has given up so much.
Clark says, “It’s not just the service member that has to sacrifice, families do too.”
Being in the military has not only affected him, but also his family and their lives. Veterans and their families have to make sacrifices to protect the country.
Veterans Day is a time where people in the community can appreciate all that veterans have done, and continue to do. It is important for people to value what veterans have done not only for them, but for the country as a whole.
