Veterans Day is a day dedicated to honoring the brave men and women who have served in the United States Military. Its origins trace back to November 11, 1938, when Congress established Armistice Day to commemorate the end of World War I on that same date in 1918. In 1954, at the heartfelt request of veteran service organizations, the 83rd U.S. Congress amended this observance, replacing the term “Armistice” with “Veterans.” Thus, November 11th evolved into a profound day of recognition for American veterans of all conflicts.
On this Veterans Day, we at VSO invited some of our veterans to share what this special day signifies for them:
Harry Belton, an Air Force Veteran, recalls his experiences on Veterans Day:
“I remember when I first joined the Air Force right out of high school, Veteran’s Day was just a day off for us, a day we would go to different restaurants around town and get a free meal. Then one year my friend and I went to a restaurant and saw an older gentleman eating by himself with a Vietnam Veterans hat on, so we asked him if we could join. After hearing his stories, we realized this day was more than just free food, it was a day we need sit back and honor the great men and women who took that brave choice to serve our country. I’m thankful for every single one of them, this country wouldn’t be as great as it is without their sacrifices.”
Tyrone Berry, an Army Veteran, focuses on the leadership he needs as a veteran:
“When I think about Veterans Day, I often reflect on my past experiences and the challenges I’ve faced—serving tours in foreign countries, losing close friends, and being away from family. This year, however, my reflections have shifted towards my leadership. I find myself contemplating the “Creed of the Non-Commissioned Officer,” a set of guiding principles for NCOs in the U.S. Army that emphasizes leadership, responsibility, and commitment to soldiers.
Some key themes include:
- – Leadership
- – Accountability
- – Communication
- – Professionalism
- – Mentorship
I recall reciting the creed during my promotion ceremony, and three lines stood out to me: ‘I know my Soldiers and I will always place their needs above my own. I will communicate consistently with my Soldiers and never leave them uninformed. I will be fair and impartial when recommending both rewards and punishment.’ These lines resonate deeply because they highlight the critical role of communication—being informed can truly save lives and eliminate confusion.”
Trenton Keen, an Army Veteran, speaks of this day as a day to celebrate veterans and their sacrifices:
“Thank you, I’d do it all again.”
“This quote came from a WWII veteran after I thanked him for his service in a Loves Truck stop. The simplicity and sincerity in his response to being thanked for his service encapsulates the heart of what every veteran feels. His response didn’t come from a desire to do it again, but rather from a profound sense of willingness—a disposition to sacrifice in ways that most will never know. Willing to spend time away from loved ones. Willing to be sent to a foreign country. Willing to dig up the sword once buried so that others don’t have to. Willing to pay the ultimate price if it is required of them. I encourage you on this Veterans Day to reflect not only on our veterans’ service, but also on their willingness to ‘do it all again.’
Brett Wasser, a Marine Corps Veteran, reflects on the duties of a veteran
“Never was so much owed by so many to so few.”
— Winston Churchill
“Veterans day, to me, is a time for reflection. I look back on the pride, the hardships, the camaraderie, the love, the sacrifices, and even the loss. I see it as a day to recall the good times and laughter, and to share it with friends, family, brothers, sisters, or anyone wanting to listen.”
Chuck Johnson, a Marine Corps Veteran, reflects on the importance of all veterans:
“Without our veterans, this country does not persist, how grateful I am for those that stepped up when the country called. What a privilege it is to be part of VSO and work with so many of these folks.”
As we reflect on this day and its profound significance, we honor the brave individuals who have served our nation, celebrating their sacrifices and invaluable contributions. This Veterans Day, please join VSO as we support the work of Wreaths Across America, a national program that honors our military veterans by placing wreaths on the graves of those who served. Visit this link to sponsor a wreath to be placed on a veteran’s grave or volunteer by laying veteran’s wreaths on the graves of our country’s service members on December 14. On this Veterans Day, we remember and pay tribute to the unwavering courage of all those who have defended our country.
