Have you ever wondered why so many Veterans Day events happen at 11 am on November 11th? The meaning is quite significant. The allied nations and Germany participated in a temporary cessation of any fighting or aggression on November 11th at 11 am. As a result, World War I ended and was referred to as “the war to end all wars.” While this wasn’t exactly true, it was the beginning of a reflective and thankful time of reflection and remembering veterans.

A year later, in November 1919, President Woodrow Wilson proclaimed November 11th as Armistice Day to commemorate veterans who fought in World War I. Interestingly enough, at 11 am on that day, all work stopped, and the country celebrated.

Following World War II, Congress officially recognized November 11th as Armistice Day. Since then, that day has been a federal holiday. In 1954, we began, as a country, to recognize and honor American veterans from all wars. This happened as a result of President Eisenhower changing Armistice Day to Veterans Day.

Veterans Day Causes us to Remember

People who fought in past skirmishes and wars are generally very humble and selfless about their service. They don’t talk much about it and would instead deflect attention away from their sacrificial service. They go about their daily routines with the memories of losing friends and experiencing the emotional and physical pain of separation from family members. They saw death but remained silent and did their jobs.

Both of my grandfathers served in the Army during times of unrest and war. My grandfather on my father’s side served in WWII. I ran across his record a few years ago and was amazed at the number of significant battles he fought. He served in Tunisia, Sicily, Naples-Foggia, Rome-Arno, France Rhineland, French Croix De Guerre. He served three tours and fought in 6 major battles. He received an honorary discharge on July 16th, 1945.

Growing up as a child, I was always so curious about WWII and would ask him questions. The only answer he would give was that he didn’t want to talk about it. The only thing he ever said was that he could dig a fox hole quicker than anyone he’d ever seen. He has since died as many who fought in that war. But their service does not go unrecognized. I know this sounds more like a Memorial Day post, but I felt the need to share that with you today.

My grandfather on my mother’s side served in Korea during that conflict. He also served three tours and then left with an honorary discharge. And again, he never talked about his time. He served with honor, and I’m so thankful for his service. Much like those in his generation, he never asked for any recognition or wanted attention drawn to himself.

Finally, I had the privilege of knowing a gentleman in my last church who was a boat captain and drove our young troops to the beaches in Normandy. I spoke often to him but never had the privilege of hearing him say much more than there was so much death and so much blood. It was as if he held that in his heart and felt some responsibility for it. He was a man who also served with honor and selflessness.

Veterans Day Causes Us to Reflect

Our response is to remember the service and sacrifice of so many who fought and served in our place for our peace and freedom. We should also continually remember our armed forces as they serve daily. Veterans Day is a big day for those who served, and I want to extend a special thanks to each of you and your service.

In honor of both of my grandfathers, I want to share their pictures with you.

George Spotts

Poovey Horton