Remembering veterans past, present

  • Published
  • By Airman 1st Class Nicholas Benroth
  • 23rd Wing Public Affairs
MOODY AIR FORCE BASE, Ga. --  "Veterans Day is a day that we give thanks to those that have served our country," said retired Lt. Col. Ed Kent. "This day is set aside to not only honor our past veterans, but to those serving right now."

Mr. Kent is not only the manager of the Georgia Department of Veterans Services in Valdosta, Georgia but he is also veteran. He served in the Army from 1978 to 1998 as a logistics officer for the First Cavalry during the Gulf War.

"Seeing the way the military has changed from when I served, is amazing," said retired Maj. Bill Danbury. "The one thing that has stayed the same is they are still protecting this country and that's what this day is for to honor that."

The history of this day is a story of patriotism and love of country. The origin of Veterans Day dates back to 1919, the end of World War I when President Woodrow Wilson proposed the idea of creating a day to honor the members that served during World War I.

This day became known as Armistice Day. Celebrating the end of WWI and marking Nov. 11, 1918, as the end of "the war to end all wars." The day's original concept called for a celebration was for a day observed with parades and public meetings and a brief suspension of business.

It was later realized that Armistice Day should not only honor those that served during WWI but to celebrate all veterans past and present. Thus a bill was sent to Congress proposing this change which led to President Dwight Eisenhower signing it into law on May 26, 1954.

In 1968 under the Uniform Holidays Bill, Veterans Day was moved to the fourth Month of every month to give families a longer weekend. This in turn caused confusion and was returned to its original date of Nov. 11.

Despite when the day is held, many members still hold a strong patriotic feeling for it.

"This day gives me a chance to not remember just my service but to remember my father and grandfather who fought for this country," said Mr. Kent. "Their service is what helped to make this country what it is today."

Veterans Day will continue to be a celebration to honor America's veterans for their patriotism, love of country and willingness to serve and sacrifice for the common good.