Many people think of Veterans Day as little more than a day off of work or school. The true meaning of this legal holiday in November is rich in history and tradition. It is a day to remember and honor all of America’s veterans.
Although World War I, known as “The Great War” officially ended with the signing of the Treaty of Versailles, on June 28, 1919; the fighting stopped on November 11, 1918. In 1921, an unknown American soldier was laid to rest in Arlington National Cemetery overlooking the city of Washington D.C. and the Potomac River. England and France also buried an unknown soldier at a place of honor in each of their nations. The ceremonies all occurred on November 11th in recognition of the end of World War I. This day, November 11th officially became a national legal holiday called “Armistice Day” when a Congressional resolution was signed in 1938.
A short time later, war erupted in Europe. This was the start of World War II. Over 16 million Americans fought and 470,000 died during their service. In 1954, Congress changed the word “Armistice” to “Veterans,” President Eisenhower signed the legislation and November 11th became the date to honor all war veterans in America.
At 11:00 a.m. on the 11th day of the 11th month, the national ceremony for Veterans Day is held at the memorial amphitheater around the Tomb of the Unknowns. Included in the ceremony is the presentation of the presidential wreath at the Tomb.
The Tomb of the Unknowns serves as a monument to all servicemen whose remains have never been identified. The soldier from World War I was buried there in 1921. Since then, unknowns from World War II, Korea and Viet man were all laid to rest beside him. Each soldier was awarded the Medal of Honor by the U.S. President who presided over their funeral. In 1998, the remains of the Viet man Unknown were exhumed and DNA tests that were not available at the time of his burial proved he was Air Force 1st Lt. Michael Joseph Blassie. Blassie was sent home to be reinterred in St. Louis.
The Tomb is guarded 24 hours a day 7 days a week even during inclement weather in honor of the fallen soldiers. Guarding the Tomb at Arlington National Cemetery is one of the highest honors and requires the sentinel to pass a detailed examination and rigorous training. Other than the Tomb Guard Identification Badge, which is the second most rarely awarded badge, the guard wears no other rank insignia on his or her uniform. This assures that they never outrank the Unknowns. The Tomb has remained under constant guard since July of 1937.
Veterans Day is a national holiday with a long and rich history. It is a day in which we honor all of the brave men and women who have fought to protect the freedom we enjoy each day.
For more information about Veteran’s Day, visit http://www1.va.gov/opa/vetsday/
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