This Monday, as we observe Veterans Day, we are reminded not only of the sacrifice made by millions of men and women who have served in the U.S. Armed Forces, but also of the importance of recognizing the veterans in our own communities. Veterans Day, which was first celebrated as Armistice Day in 1919, marks the end of World War I—the “war to end all wars”—when hostilities ceased on the 11th hour of the 11th day of the 11th month. Though the holiday has evolved over time to honor all U.S. military veterans, the essence of its observance remains rooted in gratitude and remembrance.
The significance of this day cannot be overstated. Veterans Day is not just a moment for a long weekend sale or a chance to watch a parade. It is an opportunity to reflect on the sacrifices, hardships, and courage that veterans have shown in the name of duty. These are men and women who, often at great personal cost, volunteered to protect the freedoms we hold dear. Whether they served in combat zones or in support roles, whether they enlisted for a few years or dedicated their lives to the military, all veterans share a commitment to service that deserves our recognition.
One of the most powerful aspects of Veterans Day is the chance to honor local veterans—those in our neighborhoods, our families, and our places of work. We tend to think of veterans as being part of a distant, national narrative, but in reality, many of them live among us, in our communities, often quietly going about their lives. These local veterans are our neighbors, our friends, and our family members, and their contributions deserve to be acknowledged.
Honoring them is not just about attending parades or placing flags at memorials, though those acts of remembrance are important. It’s about reaching out, listening to their stories, and offering our heartfelt appreciation for the sacrifices they made. It’s about making sure that veterans have access to the care and support they need after they return home, and advocating for policies that improve their lives. It’s about fostering a culture that sees veterans not as relics of past wars but as living testaments to the values we hold dear—values like courage, integrity, and service to others.
Veterans Day serves as a poignant reminder that the freedoms we enjoy come at a price. As we gather to commemorate this day, let us take a moment to reflect on the enduring legacy of service in our country. Let us be thankful for the veterans who gave so much, and let us continue to ensure that their sacrifices are honored, not just on one day, but every day.
This Veterans Day, as you pause to remember the sacrifices of our nation’s military, remember the local veterans who live among us. They have done their part; now, it is up to us to do ours.
Bill Sullivan is the co-owner and managing publisher of Folsom Times, an All Town Media LLC online publication that was named the Emerging Business of the Year in 2023 by Choose Folsom. He is a 31-time California News Publishers (CNPA) award recipient and. You can reach him at bill@folsomtimes.com.