Recognition of Veterans

November 11 is Veteran's Day in our nation. It is a time to specifically recognize and give thanks to those men and women who have served in our military. Veteran's Day was named in 1954 by President Dwight D. Eisenhower. This date had originally been named Armistice Day at the conclusion of World War I. The armistice between the Allies and Germany was officially signed at the 11th hour of the 11th day of the 11th month in 1918. My maternal grandfather was a veteran of WWI. He was 19 when he entered the army in 1917.

WWI was given the nickname of "the war to end all wars" because of the enormity of the fighting, death, and destruction. But the wars and conflicts that have been fought world-wide since then are too numerous to name. After WWII and the Korean War, President Eisenhower decided that all veterans should be recognized. Not all veterans are veterans of major wars. Many have been involved in peace-keeping missions, preparation and training for the possibility of war, and the service to our nation in multiple facets.

Today we are aware that veterans fall into many different categories. Some are retired from the military after serving twenty or more years. Others completed an enlistment of four years or more. Some were drafted and served for two years or more. Some suffered physical or emotional injuries while serving. Those who gave their lives while serving are recognized separately on Memorial Day at the end of May.

One question that comes to mind on this Veteran's Day - "Will there ever be a time when our nation does not need men and women to serve in the military?" We could wish and pray for a time when peace prevailed world-wide and all could live in harmony with one another. But the Bible even states that during this time before the return of Christ, there will be wars and rumors of wars. Our military will always be in place not just to fight wars but to serve as a possible deterrent to war.

So this week we honor all of our veterans who faithfully served our nation through the military. We also recognize that many others are currently serving and will be the veterans of tomorrow. If you are a veteran of our military, thank you for your service. Take time this week in particular to speak a word of thanks to our veterans and to pray for the many veterans who live with physical, emotional, and mental needs as a result of their service.