Joseph Ambrose, a World War I veteran, holding the flag that covered the casket of his son, who was killed in the Korean War.
Veterans Day has it’s roots in the horrors of World War I. For not exactly clear reasons the Armistice that ended World War I came into force on the 11th hour or the 11th day of the 11th month. HG Wells called the war “the war to end war,” but even during first world war the phrase was used disparagingly, and almost a hundred years later the need for the armed services hasn’t diminished.
In the US, and countries all over the world, men and women are willing to stand up for what they believe is right. Their sacrifices allow the majority of us to enjoy lives of freedom and safety, and although their sacrifices vary from offices jobs to the front line, every one of them deserves to be remembered.
I salute them.
I’m a doofus, I hit “reply” on the email notification to this.
This is a lovely tribute, Nigel. And that photo of Mr. Ambrose is so poignant. The “war to end all wars” is a nice thought, of course, but sadly, I think the war to end all wars would be one in which the entire human race was annihilated.
Hi Madame
That picture has been around for a while, and it does sum up a lot of emotions in one moment. I think you’re right, war isn’t going to go away anytime soon 🙁
Cheers!
Here in Canada, we call this day Remembrance Day, and observe 2 minutes of silence, ‘lest we forget’.
It is a small gesture compared to the lives lost on the battlefield, and the lives changed forever, and I am honoured to have the opportunity to salute those whom we remember.
Hi Sherry.
It’s Remembrance Day in the UK, too. I think it’s as much a moment to remember the past as to thank those who serve. When we forget history – and all that.
Cheers!
Thanks for the salute. We who have served appreciate it, whether we were actually involved in hostilities or not.
You’re welcome, David. Whether someone is involved in hostilities or not, anyone who joins the services puts their country before their own needs. It’s something we shouldn’t ignore or forget.
Thank you for your service.
Cheers!
Thank you Nigel
Thank you too, Holmes.
You excelled yourself with your article yesterday.
Cheers!
If only there were a peace to end all wars…
So many lives lost; so many families and returning veterans impacted.
Lest we forget is fitting.
My patriotic tree now has Canadian and American flags to honoUr those who fought — from our own country and our allies. Nigel? Can I count on you to get some British flags to me? We never fought alone in these wars.
Hi Gloria
I have a possible trip to blighty before Christmas, and I promise to return with a flag. Peace is more difficult…
Cheers!
Well said, Nigel. My great-uncle fought at Vimy Ridge, and my niece and nephew are in the Armed Forces. It’s hard to believe so little has changed after four generations.
I’m tremendously proud of them, but I wish their courage could be put to more positive use.
Hi Diane
You have quite a family and I’m glad you’re proud of them. It is sad to think that so little has changed over the years. I think that’s why Veterans/Remembrance Day is so important, to remember the past and keep in perspective the decisions we make today.
Cheers!
Hi Nigel,
Im from the UK as you are to, and my uncle serves in the army and at the moment he is fighting in other countries so that inocent people can have peaceful lives. im glad that people celerbrate ‘rememberance day’ because its a nice way to remember those people who faught for us… 😉
Good words, Alicia. It’s easy to forget those who risk so much for us when they’re away. I hope your uncle gets back soon.
Angelina says hello!
Cheers 🙂