fautrever.com

As a veteran of our United States Armed Forces you are undoubtedly aware of the importance of November 11th. The day was originally etched into the world’s collective memory in 1918 as the official end of “the war to end all wars.” On the eleventh hour of the eleventh day of the eleventh month Germany signed the Armistice which ended World War I. A year later President Woodrow Wilson proclaimed Armistice Day a US Federal holiday.

And so the day would have remained had WWI truly been the world’s last. Instead, the world suffered through WWII, another epic struggle. Shortly after the end of that great war Armistice Day changed in scope to honor all the valiant US soldiers who had ever served their country. Currently America has two holidays dedicated to those who have donned uniforms in defense of their country—Memorial Day and Veterans Day. Unlike Memorial Day, Veterans Day honors all American veterans—specifically those who are still living.

Which brings us to you—November 11th was set aside to honor you! We personally can not imagine all that you have seen or experienced during your years of service to our country but we, among many others, are incredibly thankful for your efforts. Because of your dedication to the ideals of this country and your loyal service we are all fortunate to still live in the world’s greatest democracy. As a bumper sticker so succinctly said, “Home of the free because of the brave.”

While there is much we do not know about our military and the way it works we do understand and appreciate why it exists and why it is so important. Some things are worth fighting for and we thank you for your sacrifices and service to our national security, both in wartime and peacetime. We have read of the physical, mental, and emotional duress you have probably experienced in your service to our country and there are really no words we can think of to thank you for it.

Please know that you are appreciated!