Patriotism. Love of country. A willingness to serve, and to sacrifice, for the common good. These qualities define the character of our Veterans and are the reason we celebrate them on Veterans Day.
In November 1919, following the end of World War I, President Woodrow Wilson proclaimed November 11th as the first commemoration of Armistice Day with these words:
“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.”
Armistice Day later became Veterans Day following World War II when President Dwight D. Eisenhower proclaimed:
“On [Veterans] Day let us all of solemnly remember the sacrifices of all those who fought so valiantly; on the seas, in the air, and on foreign shores, to preserve our heritage of freedom, and let us reconsecrate ourselves to the task of promoting an enduring peace, so that their efforts shall not have been in vain.”
At Gracestone, we believe in the American Experiment and the critical role veterans play in it. The freedoms we enjoy as a country would not exist without these heroes.
We believe in love of country. Not as a “short frenzied burst of emotion, but as a long and steady dedication of a lifetime.” We believe in answering the call to duty and appreciate those who have done so. We believe that sacrifice is the “pinnacle of patriotism” and honor our veterans and their families who make myriad sacrifices for the common good.
Thank you, veterans—past, present, and future—for defending our country and safeguarding the peace. May your remembrance be as lasting as the land you have honored.