Veteran's Day, once called "Armistice Day", began on November 11, 1919. It was the first anniversary of the end of World War 1. In 1926 Congress passed for it to be observed annually and in 1938 it became a national holiday.
Many of my family members have served, such as my father, grandfather, uncles, and cousins. With having a military background comes stories and a sense of pride for the freedom we have. Many people forget to thank our military because they get so use to the freedom we have. But there's a problem with freedom, it's not free for some.
These men and women who fight for our freedom haven't just sacrificed putting their life on the line. They sacrifice not being with family and friends, and not just on any other day sometimes, but on special occasions such has birthdays and Christmas. They don't always get to eat warm, delicious meals but fill their mouths with a fake blob of food warmed up with water in a bag. While we're climbing in our warm, cozy beds filled with pillows, they're getting on a cot no bigger than a couch cushion with metal rods underneath and there's no telling where they may be sleeping. Many don't hear from their family other than through letters and many just hope to return.
If these men and women do return, they suffer in many ways. In ways such as PTSD or nightmares and just can't find a sense of belonging. 50% of veterans experience mental health issues.
The hardest fact to face is that nearly 20 veterans commit suicide not in a week, month, or year but...a day! In 2014, more than 7,400 veterans took their own life..
Veteran's day should be more than one day a year. It shouldn't just be a few thank yous', some Facebook post and a couple ceremonies. These men and women deserve more a than a "thank you" once a year. A Facebook post can never show or say how much their sacrifice mean. Though ceremonies are a great way to honor them, much more should be done.
When you have the chance don't just thank a veteran, but take them out, do something for them and talk and listen to them. But most importantly love them!
