Veteran's Day November 11

HISTORY ...
November 11th is a special day of recognition not only in the United States, but throughout the world.  In 1918, it marked the end of World War I fighting in the 11th hour, of the 11th day, of the 11th month.  Originally it was known as Armistice Day.

Armistice Day officially received it's name through a Congressional Resolution in 1926.  Twelve years later, in 1938, it became a national holiday.

Unfortunately, World War I was not the war to end all wars.  In years to follow, American soldiers fought in World War II and the Korean War.  Therefore, the U.S. Congress requested that November 11th be a day to honor veterans of all wars.  In 1954, President Eisenhower signed a bill proclaiming November 11th as Veteran's Day, a special day to honor all veterans.

A site of reverence for all American veteran's is Arlington National Cemetery.  In 1921 an unknown American World War I soldier was buried at this special cemetery.  This location in the cemetery is marked as the "Tomb Of The Unknown Soldier" or "The Tomb Of The Unknowns" and is symbolic of all Americans who gave their lives in battle.  A few years prior to 1921, similar ceremonies occurred in England and France.  An unknown soldier was buried in each of those nation's highest place of honor.  In England, the unknown soldier is buried in Westminster Abbey and in France, the Arc de Triomphe.

On Memorial Day in 1958, two more unknown American soldiers were buried next to the first unknown soldier.  One of these soldiers had been killed in World War II and the other in the Korean War.  In 1984, an unknown soldier, from the Vietnam War, was placed alongside the other soldiers.  An army honor guard from the 3rd U.S. Infantry keeps vigil day and night at this special place of honor.

Every year on November 11th at 11 a.m. a national ceremony is held at Arlington National Ceremony.  In honor of all veterans, a color guard representing all armed forces executes "Present Arms", a bugler plays taps and a presidential wreath is placed at the tomb.
 
 

FLANDERS FIELD ...

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