Veterans Day – A Day for Reflection and Appreciation

Veterans Day is here and everyone at Austin Air would like to express appreciation to all of the men and women who have served in the armed forces on behalf of the United States. Despite the fact that conflicts have taken place throughout the history of the United States, there hasn’t always been an official holiday to reflect upon the achievements of those who have served and to honor their sacrifices. It’s been a tradition for a little less than one-hundred years.

World War I, then referred to as The Great War, officially ended with the Treaty of Versailles on June 28, 1919 but a ceasefire between the two sides began months earlier at the eleventh hour of the eleventh day of the eleventh month. The following year, November 11^th was declared Armistice Day to mark the end of fighting and to acknowledge the sacrifices made by those who fought in “the war to end wars”. It was also a celebration of the successful fight to maintain freedom.

Unfortunately, WWI was soon succeeded by the Second World War, and more fighting followed. It wasn’t until 1954 that veterans from other conflicts were included in the honors for Armistice Day and the name was changed to encompass all veterans. In countries which are part of the British Commonwealth, today is Remembrance Day and the history is similar – November 11^th was initially reserved to mark the end of World War I but now it commemorates all people who have fought for freedom.

Every day is a day in which to appreciate the sacrifices made by the men and women who have served our country, not just November 11^th. To those of you out there who have served, thank you. It’s also important to express gratitude for the sacrifices made by the families of our members of the armed forces. Thank you.