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.

Tomorrow is veteran’s day,(NO it’s not just a free day off) it is a time to honor and remember the men and women who served in the U.S. Armed Forces, past and present.  Veteran’s day means more to my family especially.  Both of my grandfathers, my uncle, my father and I myself are veterans.

Unfortunately my grandfathers are no longer with us, but I had the honor of knowing and loving them both.  Edward Hubert served in the US Army in WWII as a Staff Sargent, he was in the Battle of the Bulge and personally met General George S. Patton. Henry Wolf served as a Bombardier/Navigator on the B-26 Invader for the 13th Bomb Squadron during the Korean War. 

My father, my uncle and I all served in the U.S. Coast Guard.  My father retired after 20 years of service in 1991.  

So… if you happen to see veterans tomorrow at your local mall or supermarket with a table full of keychains and pamphlets… stop by and talk to them…give them a donation and a handshake, believe me… you will enjoy it!