Why We Celebrate Veterans Day
Written by Four Seasons Spiritual Care Team Leader and U.S. Navy Submarine Service Veteran, Chaplain Michael Wermuth
World War I—then known as “The Great War”—officially concluded with the signing of the Treaty of Versailles on June 28, 1919, at the Palace of Versailles in France. However, hostilities had ceased months earlier when an armistice between the Allied nations and Germany took effect at the eleventh hour of the eleventh day of the eleventh month: November 11, 1918. This date came to be recognized as the end of World War I and was originally commemorated as “Armistice Day.”
In November 1919, President Woodrow Wilson proclaimed the first observance of Armistice Day, stating: “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…”
On October 8, 1954, President Dwight D. Eisenhower officially renamed Armistice Day to Veterans Day. Since then, it has continued to be observed annually on November 11, preserving the historical significance of the date while emphasizing its deeper purpose: to honor America’s veterans for their patriotism, love of country, and selfless service for the common good.
As we commemorate Veterans Day, we must remember that military service often involves great risk. Many veterans have endured physical and emotional wounds in the line of duty. Our armed forces are composed entirely of volunteers – individuals who willingly step forward to defend our nation and promote the universal ideals of freedom and liberty.
Veterans also sacrifice precious time with their families, missing milestones such as birthdays, anniversaries, and graduations. Their loved ones serve alongside them in spirit, enduring long separations and the emotional burden of uncertainty. Some veterans made the ultimate sacrifice – what has been called “the last full measure of devotion,” by laying down their lives for the freedoms we hold dear. As Scripture reminds us in John 15:13, “Greater love has no one than this, that someone lay down his life for his friends.”
We celebrate Veterans Day because…
- It honors those currently serving, those who have served, and those who gave their lives in defense of our country.
- It recognizes the invaluable contributions veterans have made to our nation and expresses gratitude for their service.
- It acknowledges the sacrifices made by veterans’ families.
- It invites reflection on the challenges veterans face, including access to healthcare, mental wellness, housing, and employment.
- It calls us to advocate for the needs and well-being of our veterans.
Please join us in honoring those who have served this Veterans Day.
How Four Seasons Cares for Veterans
Four Seasons is honored to care for Veterans living with serious illness and at the end of life. Through the We Honor Veterans program, Veterans receive special recognition for their service. Four Seasons also provides specialized companionship and emotional support to help veterans navigate the unique challenges they face at the end of life.
The We Honor Veterans program at Four Seasons is supported by the generous contributions of the community. If you would like to make a donation in memory or in honor of a Veteran to impact Veteran care at Four Seasons, give online through the Four Seasons Foundation.
