EEvery year on Nov. 11, Americans stop to honor the men and women who have served in the United States Armed Forces. This day serves as a reminder to citizens of the courage and service poured into the country by veterans.
At NDB, halls were quiet on Monday as students took the day off to commemorate this national holiday. The significance of the day was equally significant even in the absence of big ceremonies or assemblies that could have taken place at school.
Across the country, many shared moments of reflection. In both small towns and big cities, people held parades, memorial services and took silent moments of prayer to honor the millions of Americans who have served in the military. Communities from all over the nation discovered easy, heartfelt ways to express gratitude. Flags were put up outside homes, and social media was flooded with expressions of thankfulness. Veteran organizations in the area, such as the American Legion and Veterans of Foreign Wars, held breakfast, handed out flags and went to community centers to tell their stories.
A local from San Francisco, Troy Wesley, is a veteran who served during the Vietnam War, and he typically attends these regular gatherings throughout the year.
Veteran’s Day has its roots that begin with the end of World War I. According to theworldwar.org, this national holiday was previously known as Armistice Day and was created to celebrate peace after one of the deadliest wars in history. The holiday did not get its current name until 1954, when President Eisenhower signed a bill officially changing it. This expanded the honor to all Americans who served, not only to those who served during World War I (The Origins of Veterans Day).
For many veterans, the holiday carries a more personal weight. For Troy, it brings back memories of the people he served with.
“The service stays with you in ways other folks don’t always understand, especially when you think about your buddies who never came home,” he shared. “I think of it every single day.”
His wise words highlight the emotional side of service that the public often does not see.
As the day came to an end, many people returned to their regular routines, but the meaning of Veterans Day remained clear. It is a reminder to appreciate those who have served and to recognize their contributions in everyday ways. Whether it is through having a quiet moment of respect or even writing a letter to a fellow veteran, any small gesture counts. In the end, honoring veterans is less about one day and more about ongoing respect shown throughout the year.
