Veterans Day 2012 poster
Veterans Day is on Sunday, November 11, but the federal holiday will also be observed on Monday November 12 this year. This is a time set aside to recognize some of our country’s true heroes: the men and women who have served in the Armed Forces. Peoples Flower Shops salutes these brave Americans and encourages everyone to participate in events to honor our veterans.
A Look Back at Veterans Day
The history of Veterans Day traces back to 1919 when President Woodrow Wilson proclaimed the holiday of Armistice Day to mark the 1-year anniversary of the signing of the treaty that ended World War I. Hostilities were halted on the 11th hour of the 11th day of the 11th month of 1918. That’s why so many Veterans Day ceremonies are held at 11 in the morning. In the 1940’s, Armistice Day changed to encompass honoring all veterans and Veterans Day as we know it was born.
Veteran’s Day Events Around Albuquerque
Albuquerque will honor veterans on Sunday, November 11 at the New Mexico Veterans Memorial at 1100 Louisiana Blvd. SE. The annual Veterans Day parade begins at 9 in the morning, starting from USS Bullhead Memorial Park. There will be music at 10, followed by a ceremony at 11. This year’s ceremony will focus on World War II veterans.
Weekend Activities
The National Park Service is recognizing Veterans Day weekend by offering fee-free days from November 10-12. For New Mexico residents, that means beautiful sites like Bandalier National Monument, Petroglyph National Monument, and White Sands will be free to visit all weekend long.
Thank a Veteran
If you have a family member who has served, Veterans Day is a great time to reconnect. Give him or her a call, arrange for a lunch, or take a moment to send a letter saying,”Thank you.” This can be a great time to involve your children in understanding and recognizing the service and hard work of the military. Take them to the Veterans Day parade or help them make a drawing for or send a card to a family member in the service.
Operation Appreciation is another way to share your encouragement and make a personal connection with active-duty military members and their families. Download the information packet to get started. Put together a gift package to send to overseas military personnel. Organizations like Any Solider and Operation Gratitude can help you connect with active duty members of the military to show your appreciation for their hard work.
There are plenty of volunteer opportunities for people who want to give back to the veteran community. Check with local veterans organizations in your area or connect with the Department of Veterans Affairs Voluntary Service division. Please join Peoples Flowers in saluting our veterans this Veterans Day weekend.
