Keepers of the Oath: Why Veterans Day Still Matters
Every November 11th, we pause to honor the men and women who answered our country's call. The date is no accident. Armistice Day first honored the veterans of World War I, but in 1954, after World War II had required the greatest mobilization of soldiers, sailors, Marines and airmen in the Nation's history, Congress made November 11th a day to honor American veterans of all wars. President Eisenhower, who had commanded the liberation of Europe, issued the first Veterans Day proclamation, asking citizens to remember those who fought “to preserve our heritage of freedom.” That heritage is not a concept. It is written down in a Constitution that every service member swears an oath to support and defend.
That oath is what sets the American veteran apart. Our soldiers, sailors, airmen, Marines, Guardians and Coast Guardsmen do not pledge loyalty to a king, a party or a politician. They pledge themselves to the belief in limited government, God-given rights, and protecting the liberty of citizens who sleep while they stand watch. The Founders entrusted Congress, accountable to the people, with raising and supporting armies. For more than 250 years, from Lexington to Kandahar, our veterans have honored that design and asked little in return.
This Veterans Day, do more than post a flag emoji. Fly the real flag, as Eisenhower directed officials to arrange for its display on all public buildings. Teach children the Constitution our veterans defended. Insist that Washington keep its promises on health care and benefits for them, because a nation that sends citizens into harm's way should assist in caring for them when they return. When you meet a veteran, shake their hand and say two simple words - thank you. Liberty was never free, and those who paid for it deserve our gratitude every day, not just one.
Sources
https://www.presidency.ucsb.edu/documents/proclamation-3071-veterans-day-1954
