American people love heroes: soaring superhumans, stand-out civilians, and—most of all—stalwart soldiers. Each and every day, the United States is indebted to the legion of people who have served in the U.S. Armed Forces. And, on one specific day, the country honors every single one of those brave heroes. That day is Veterans Day.
Every year, Veterans Day is held on November 11th; it also happens to coincide with two other global holidays that reflect on wars and the people who fight in them—Remembrance Day and Armistice Day.
Before there was Veterans Day, there was just Armistice Day. This day was designed to celebrate the armistice (a temporary halt on hostilities) made on the 11th hour of the 11th day of the 11th month in 1918 during World War I. It became a federal holiday to celebrate the end of the war on the following year.
After subsequent wars with American involvement, World War II and the Korean War in particular, the holiday became Veterans Day to commemorate all members of the U.S. Armed Services. Veterans Day was made official—and a federal holiday—in 1954.
Non-essential offices of the federal government are closed on this day, and all federal workers are paid for the day as a holiday. Whenever the day falls on a Saturday or Sunday, many organizations choose to officially celebrate the day on the following Monday.
Since its inception over sixty years ago, thousands of brave Americans have pledged themselves to service in the U.S. Armed Services. Many have tragically lost their lives in this service. Veterans Day celebrates every veteran—young and old, alive and passed on. It is a day to reflect on memories, consider the costs of war, and celebrate U.S. Armed Services members who still fight for freedom each and every day.
Many Americans commemorate this day by visiting graveyards of honored, deceased loved ones. Many still will also attend various Veterans Day parades and celebrations. Generally speaking, it's an optimistic day geared toward reflection.
As time marches on, it becomes increasingly more paramount that this nation's heroes get the respect and proper treatment that they deserve. Geneva College prioritizes honor and service to our nation's veterans; that's why we were named one of the country's Best Colleges for Veterans by the U.S. World & News Report.
On this Veterans Day, we hope that every American takes the time to observe America's most valiant. It's the best way to serve those who serve us.
Source
http://www.va.gov/opa/vetsday/
http://www.va.gov/opa/vetsday/vdnc_history.asp
http://www.history.com/topics/holidays/history-of-veterans-day
Opinions expressed in the Geneva Blog are those of its contributors and do not necessarily represent the opinions or official position of the College. The Geneva Blog is a place for faculty and contributing writers to express points of view, academic insights, and contribute to national conversations to spark thought, conversation, and the pursuit of truth, in line with our philosophy as a Christian, liberal arts institution.
Nov 11, 2015
Read about the origins of Black History Month, some people in history you may not have heard before, and why Black history should be celebrated year-round.
Read to learn more about the history and celebration of the newest federal holiday, Juneteenth.
After ministering in local churches for nearly 20 years, Geneva College alumnus Kent Chevalier '99 accepted a unique ministry position as the chaplain for the NFL's Pittsburgh Steelers through the Athletes in Action organization. Chevalier and wife Erica support the players and their families during the season and raise their own support in the off season.
Though the path is uncertain, He knows the way, He created the path, and He already knows your destination. In the meantime, trust this season of graduation and rest in Him. Rest in His arms as you wait for the journey to begin.
When you’re starting college, you might not know what you want to focus on yet. That is completely normal and much more common than you might think. So, yes, you can start college as an undeclared major and many schools encourage this time of exploration. Geneva College even has a dedicated program for students with undeclared majors to help them identify God’s calling in their lives and careers.
One of the greatest ways to prepare for the job market after graduation is to participate in an internship program. If you’re new to the internship process, you probably have lots of questions.
Arcade video games. Go-Karts. Trampolines. Ice cream. History. Need a place to get away from the books and papers for an afternoon of fun? Here's part 2 of your guide to the numerous places to visit in the Beaver Falls area.
As I walked the Via Dolorosa (The Way of Suffering), I was walking the very path of Christ from Palm Sunday to the crucifixion. As I stood in the remains of Jericho, I was reminded of God’s faithfulness in delivering the city into the hands of the Israelites. As I scooped water from the Jordan River, I was reminded that Christ is the living water. It was indeed the trip of a lifetime and my faith will forever be changed because of it.
How should leaders deal with difficult situations in difficult times? Geneva College’s John Gallo and Jenna Bieber provide a guidebook for leaders. "Lessons from Cain and Abel to Guide Leaders Through Turbulent Times" walks readers through the account of Cain and Abel to teach leaders the importance of justice, mercy, harmony and equality.
Each February, the U.S. recognizes the importance of African Americans throughout our country’s history with Black History Month. This month provides us with a time to celebrate the accomplishments and achievements of African American heroes and learn more about their impact on our nation. As part of this month-long celebration, find out more about some of the most important historical figures who have played an important role in U.S. history.
Learn more about Geneva College.
Have questions? Call us at 724-847-6505.
© Geneva College | All rights reserved
