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How do you celebrate Veteran's Day - November 11th ?
After the Civil War the country was proud of the many young men who served in the cause of "Freedom for All". A special day was created to thank these courageous men who gave their lives. (Many were very young boys whose patriotism was so strong that they felt the need to serve this cause.) The day was called Decoration Day.
World War I ended on 11 November 1918. This day became known as Armistice Day. A partial quote from the Rutland Herald shows the spirit and relief of the people in their celebration.
"CITY CELEBRATES. Blowing of Whistles and Ringing of Bells Signals War is Over, Brings Out Thousands in Early Morning Monster Parade, Old and Young Join in Noisiest Demonstration in Rutland's History, Business Places and Schools Closed
From shortly after daybreak until another day began this morning, a glorified and many times magnified Fourth of July celebration was the city's demonstration with its continuous noise, music, flags and bunting, parades and unlimited hilarity, expressing the joy of old and young at the end of the War."
Armistice Day was celebrated every year after to honor the men who had served their country. Some time after World War II, the name of the celebration was changed to Veteran's Day (Trivia question: What year was the name changed to Veteran's Day?) This day celebrates not only the previous wars but also other conflicts in which American men and women have been involved. The sacrifice of these men and women, whether by death for their country or by disability or even just the courage to serve and come home safely, should always be remembered by future generations.
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