Armistice Day to Veterans Day, Thanks for Services Rendered

Yesterday was the eleventh day of the eleventh month. Once called Armistice Day, today the date is used to honor veterans who have made the ultimate sacrifice for their country. In the United States, Armistice Day evolved into Veterans Day, while communities, big and small, across Canada hold Remembrance Day ceremonies. Just a quick glance at my family tree shows a long history of military service. From grandfathers to fathers to sons, soldiers to sailors, marines to air corps, members of my family have served from World War I through to the deserts of the Middle East.

While thoughts of supporting those in military service often fade with the sunset of a patriotic holiday, care packages, thoughts and prayers are needed all year round. If you don’t have a spouse, a son or grandson, or niece or granddaughter wearing the uniform, there are numerous organization and sites that allows connections to be made or personnel supported. Some like the Lt. Dennis Zilinski Foundation (www.runwithdennis.org) are inspired by those who made the ultimate sacrifice. Others are just local organizations whose members want to make life easier for men and women in the armed services. 

And remember, not all soldiers wear uniforms or walk on two feet. Working dogs also serve. Various charities support either active duty war dogs or those transitioning to civilian life. A number of them can be found here.

Whatever you do, whether you nod to a veteran and say thank you for your service, or watch a local parade, keep those who defend our freedoms in mind, even after the sunset of the official holiday passes. To those in uniform--now and in the past, thank you for your service.

Helen