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Friday, Mar 29th

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Veterans Remember and are Remembered

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November 11 of every year is Veterans Day. Initially named Armistice Day in honor of the signing of the peace accords for World War I – the war to end all wars – on the eleventh day of the eleventh month at the eleventh hour, the quasi-holiday is a time to celebrate the service of all Americans who spent time with the military, past and present.

The holiday is often confused with Memorial Day, but the difference between the two is well-defined. Veterans Day marks the service of all, no matter how large or how small, while Memorial Day is about those who have passed on, either as a result of their service or more natural causes.

It is however, almost impossible to remember those who served without remembering those who gave the last measure of themselves for their country. Every American family, or so it seems, has at least one member who has done just that, and they do indeed deserve to be remembered.

From the Candlelight Vigil sponsored by Veterans Helping Veterans, to the Memorial Service at Hillcrest Cemetery, the eight-block parade to the County Courthouse, complete with speeches from dignitaries, it was all about memories. Some were pleasant, some were not, but the collective memories are an integral part of our national conscience.

The memories lasted beyond the formal recognition as several entities offered discounted or free meals to veterans, including Chief Manuelito Mid School, Applebee’s, Sizzler, Golden Corral, and Denny’s. There may have been more involved in this effort, so please excuse any omission.

Not even the cold weather could keep the crowds away from the Courthouse Plaza, though many took advantage of the hot drinks and other treats being offered for sale by Miyamura High School. And the camaraderie was evident throughout, as it should be, and warmed the hearts of those who were chilled by the wind and low temperatures.

It was a good year for veterans in 2015, maybe not perfect but progressing as life always does in these matters. Hope your Veterans Day was as good as mine!