Sopwith Camel, Fighter Plane used in WWI

Echoing Greg’s thoughts, I’d like to include a couple of my own. This Veteran’s Day is extra special. For those unaware, Veteran’s Day started as Armstice Day. While the Treaty of Versailles wasn’t signed until June of 1919, the WWI was effectively over when the Allies and Germans signed an Armistice on Nov 11, 1918. That means this Tuesday marks the end of that major earth shattering conflict, the precursor to the worst war in world history, as having happened 90 years ago, to the day.

In post-war Europe, Armstice Day was evolving into a Day of Rememberance. The idea migrated across the ocean and became Rememberance Day stateside.  After subsequent wars, Rememberance day became an all-encompassing recollection of all those who have gone before, our heroes, our Veterans.

I’m lucky to call the men of my family heroes for their commitment to freedom and service.  My great-grandfather served in the Royal Flying Corps in the year of 1917. He flew Sopwith Camels for the Number 3 squadron.  My grandfather was a member of the USAF during Korea, serving as a mechanic and eventually retiring.  My father graduated from the USAF Academy in ‘79 and served 11yrs as an Air Force Fighter pilot. 

So to those who have served, to the brave that are serving now, the POWs and MIAs that will never  be forgotten, thank you.