Nick Turner

Jess Wolfe

Staff Writers

        November 11, Veterans Day, gives Americans the opportunity to celebrate the bravery and sacrifice of all U.S. veterans. That is why it is  important that all Americans know the history of Veterans Day so that our veterans can be honored properly 

        November 11 hasn’t always been known as Veterans Day. Renamed in 1945, it was originally called Armistice Day and celebrated the armistice signed between the Allies and Germany rather than today’s holiday where veterans are honored from war and peacetime. Veterans Day celebrates anyone who has served in one of the five branches of the military past or present. 

        Reflecting on the past and remembering the men and women who risked their lives for our country is important so American veterans can be celebrated and honored American veterans for their sacrifice, patriotism, and willingness to serve. By honoring veterans on this day they get the opportunity to share stories, reflect on their time spent during the war and show them they are appreciated for all the sacrifices they have made.

        It is important to show them appreciation, not only to show them people are thankful but to show them they care.

        Head of the Social Studies department, Austin Cesare, says “It is important for our community to recognize and appreciate veterans because freedoms were fought for by them and all the liberties enjoyed today would not be possible without them.” 

        In recent years, Veterans Day has been a time to also focus on the struggles that veterans face. According to militarytimes.com, about 20 veterans commit suicide per day, and male veterans are 1.3 times as likely to commit suicide than males who never served. By showing veterans they are appreciated, it can help prevent a veteran´s suicide.

        Many communities do this by honoring veterans through parades or celebrations. This Veterans Day,  New York City is hosting its annual Veterans Day Parade, which is the largest Veterans Day celebration in America. Many schools across America also get involved in Veterans Day by having local veterans visit their schools. 

        At Foran, veterans are commemorated through various activities. This year,  Foran is hosting two assemblies including guest speakers, musical selections and a tribute speech to veterans. Veterans are welcomed to share their stories and experiences with the students and class time is dedicated during history classes to discuss the topic.

        Along with parades and celebrations, it’s also important to thank or show appreciation to local veterans in the community. Showing this gratitude is what Veterans Day is all about. Even if students do not personally know a veteran,  many communities and schools hold Veterans Day events that they can get involved in.