Veterans' Day 2007

Yesterday was "Veterans Day." In case you didn't know the history of it here you go.

In 1921, an unknown World War I American soldier was buried in Arlington National Cemetery the focal point of reverence for America’s veterans. Traditionally, the observance occurred on November 11th, the significance of which being due to the fact that the armistice of World War I took place in the 11th month, on the 11th day, at the 11th hour of the day. It was known as Armistice Day but was changed to honor all veterans of all wars in 1954 under the signature of President Eisenhower.

On Memorial Day 1958, two more unidentified American war dead were brought from overseas and interred in the plaza beside the tomb of the unknown soldier of World War I. "One soldier was killed in World War II, the other in the Korean War. In 1984, an unknown serviceman from the Vietnam War was placed alongside the others. To honor these men, symbolic of all Americans who gave their lives in all wars, an Army honor guard, the 3rd U.S. Infantry (The Old Guard), keeps day and night vigil."

In this era of anti-war, anti-military sentiment it is all the more important to extend our appreciation to the men and women who have served in the interest of the freedoms we all take so for granted. Were it not for a military and the great personal sacrifice of hundreds of thousands of people who gave their lives and millions more families who grieve their loss, this would be a vastly different nation. It is distressing that the cost of liberty seems to have become buried under piles of "peace at any price" slogans and politicians who fail to understand the intrinsic nature of the wickedness of the human heart.

As long as there are people on earth, there will always be a need for a mighty military and even mightier men and women who see clearly enough and magnanimous enough to offer the ultimate sacrifice for those who appreciate it so little. When you have opportunity, tell one of our warriors--"Thank you." May God have mercy on us all.