This Veterans Day, More Than Ever, Our Veterans Need Your Encouragement and Support

Formerly known as Armistice Day, this holiday was originally created to commemorate the end of World War I, which officially took place on November 11, 1918. That war was referred to as the “war to end all wars.”  That was a naïve, albeit hopeful, wish. Obviously, it did not come true.  Throughout the 20th century, and in response to the horrific acts on September 11th at the beginning of the 21th this century, U.S. forces continue to fight the evils that plague our world.  In our all-volunteer military, men and women continue to risk their lives as living symbols of justice and freedom, and to counter the forces of evil that would do us harm.

In 1954, the 83rd U.S. Congress – responding to veterans’ service organizations and in the aftermath of World War II and the Korean War – deleted the word "Armistice" and inserted the word "Veterans."  With President Dwight D. Eisenhower’s signature on June 1, 1954, legislation was enacted establishing November 11th as a day to honor all American veterans.

Although many people confuse Veterans Day with Memorial Day, we should note that Memorial Day honors those members of the military who paid the ultimate sacrifice and gave their life in the service of our nation. This includes those killed in action or who died because of wounds or injuries received in combat operations. In recent years it became a day to honor all veterans who have passed away, whether or not it was related to battle.  That is appropriate.

On the other hand, Veterans Day is an occasion to honor all military veterans who served with honor and to thank them for their service. It has also become a day in which to thank all men and women who continue to serve in the Army, Navy, Air Force, Marine Corps, and the Guard and Reserve.

Military service has its own unique challenges—and dangers.  Everyone who signs up and serves is quite aware that there is the possibility that they will die in service to the nation.  We all hope that will not be the case.  But in combat operations, training, or travel—it is possible that one might die.  All who serve accept this reality and serve anyway.  That alone calls for the respect and gratitude of all Americans.

This year, with the chaotic withdrawal from Afghanistan and the controversies surrounding some of our senior military leaders, many veterans are struggling and are discouraged.  We should be mindful of that and offer encouragement and support to them.  Also, the suicide rate among veterans remains high.  They need our prayers and for people to be aware of the emotional toll of military service.

In addition, the ACLJ remains dedicated to defending the religious liberty of our servicemen and women, and we are currently pushing back against attempts to remove the Bible from POW/MIA displays at military installations. (You can read more about that effort here.)

May God bless all the military veterans of our great nation.  May we all aspire to live by the noble intentions and courageous deeds of our Founding Fathers and Mothers—deeds which continue to live through those who wear the uniform of the Armed Forces.  Have a blessed and patriotic Veterans Day!