Veteran’s Day, previously known as Armistice Day, is a day of celebration to honor our veterans for their patriotism, love of their country, and their willingness to serve and sacrifice for the common good. “In November 1919, President Wilson proclaimed November 11 as the first commemoration of Armistice Day with the following 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, 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…” – Department of Veteran Affairs Years later on June 1st in 1954 President Eisenhower signed legislation changing the name of the holiday from Armistice Day to Veteran’s Day.
One my favorite things about NYC is that each holiday is celebrated in a big way, and veterans are recognized with the largest Veterans Day parade in the country. The Veterans Day parade is hosted by the United War Veterans Council, Inc and this year will mark the 92nd anniversary of the parade. The parade consists of floats, active duty military units, bands, medal of honor recipients, and veteran groups. It begins at 11am and runs along Fifth Avenue from 23rd Street to 56th Street, ending at 2pm.
If you’re up early, head over to Citi Pond at Bryant Park before checking out the parade. They will be honoring veterans with a special ceremony from 8:00am-9:00am.
During the month of November many of us try to stop and remember the things that we are thankful and to show our appreciation to those we love and those in need. Let’s not forget to remember the veterans. Those who willingly serve and sacrifice for the common good. Here are some pictures I took earlier this year during a trip to Washington D.C. of memorials dedicated to veterans.
Vietnam Veterans Memorial
Korean War Veterans Memorial
Korean War Veterans Memorial
“Because all of us believe and understand in the fabric of the common bond of why we call ourselves American is to care for the men and women who wear the uniform; and when they take off the uniform, we care for them when they are veterans.” – Steve Buyer
A Girl Travels 