In 1918 on the eleventh hour of the eleventh day of the eleventh month "the war to end all wars" ended. The allied nations and Germany had went into an armistice and months later on July 28th the Treaty of Versailles was signed ending World War I for good. President Wilson appointed November 11 as Armistice Day saying, "To us in America, the reflections of Armistice Day will be filled with solemn pride in the heroism of those who died in the country’s service and with gratitude for the victory, both because of the thing from which it has freed us and because of the opportunity it has given America to show her sympathy with peace and justice in the councils of the nations…" Armistice Day was set aside to honor WWI veterans until after WWII. Military involvement was at its highest in America's history during WWII. Therefore, on June 1, 1954, Armistice Day became Veterans Day. President Eisenhower stated, "In order to insure proper and widespread observance of this anniversary, all veterans, all veterans' organizations, and the entire citizenry will wish to join hands in the common purpose. Toward this end, I am designating the Administrator of Veterans' Affairs as Chairman of a Veterans Day National Committee, which shall include such other persons as the Chairman may select, and which will coordinate at the national level necessary planning for the observance. I am also requesting the heads of all departments and agencies of the Executive branch of the Government to assist the National Committee in every way possible." This made Veterans Day into a day to honor all veterans rather than just WWI. This wonderful holiday continues to be celebrated today.
From everybody at Dove Creek, we would like to thank all of America's veterans for their patriotism and willingness to risk their lives for our great nation.
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