America has fought many wars since the American Revolution. But World War I was the first to involve so many nations. The end of this war was marked on November 11, 1918 with a cease-fire agreement signed on the eleventh hour of the eleventh day in the eleventh month. The date became known as Armistice Day in honor of the world-wide celebration of the close of “the war to end all wars.” In years to follow, soldiers who had survived the war marched in local parades. Politicians and veteran officers gave speeches and held ceremonies of thanks for the peace our veterans had won. However, America quickly realized that the first World War would not be the last. Following World War 2 and the Korean War, townspeople in Emporia, Kansas called November 11 Veterans’ Day in gratitude to their local veterans. Soon after, Congress passed a bill renaming the day. Since 1954, the United States has observed November 11 as Veterans’ Day to honor all veterans of all U.S. wars. Though there are fewer military parades and formal observances now, Americans still give thanks on November 11 for the peace and freedoms won by our veterans. Every year at 11 a.m. on November 11, a combined color guard representing all military services executes "Present Arms" at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldiers. The nation's tribute to its war dead is symbolized by the laying of a presidential wreath. The bugler plays "taps."
For information on Veterans Day 2009 at Downers Grove North, try using one of the links below
Participating Veterans
Assembly Speakers
Veterans Day Schedule
- Assembly Schedule
©2009 Community High School District 99. All Rights Reserved.
|