Honoring Our Veterans: The Meaning of November 11th

Veteran's Day is observed annually on November 11th, regardless of the day of the week, in honor of the 11th hour of the 11th day of the 11th month of 1918, when the armistice was signed, ending World War I. Originally, this day was called Armistice Day, but in 1954, President Eisenhower signed a bill officially renaming it Veteran's Day. Our church will celebrate our veterans by recognizing and praying for them during our service. People have asked me what a proper greeting to a veteran is on Veteran's Day. The best I know is a simple, sincere "Thank you for your service."

It is important to remember that Veteran's Day differs from Memorial Day. Memorial Day is reserved for honoring those who gave their lives while serving in the armed forces. Veteran's Day honors all those who have served, both living and deceased, and it is customary to also recognize and thank those currently serving.

A Look at Our Military Branches

The formation of the U.S. Army, U.S. Navy, and the U.S. Marines was authorized by the Continental Congress in 1775. The Coast Guard followed in 1790, the Air Force was established in 1947, and the Space Force began in 2019.

The noble aspirations of each branch are captured in their mottos:

Service Branch	Motto	Meaning
Army	This We'll Defend
Navy	Non sibi sed patria (Unofficial)	Not for self, but for country (Latin)
Marines	Semper Fidelis (Semper Fi)	Always Faithful (Latin)
Coast Guard	Semper Paratus	Always Ready (Latin)
Air Force	Aim High...Fly-Fight-Win
Space Force	Semper Supra	Always Above (Latin)

If you know a veteran, please take a moment to thank them for their service.

Blessings,

Pastor Jerry