The 11th hour on the 11th day of the 11th month. Called Armistice Day, the national holiday was created in 1918 to honor the sacrifice of those who died during World War I.
But even though WWI was thought to be “the war to end all wars,” it has proven anything but, according to a military publication.
“By 1954, Americans had served in both WWII and the Korean War, Armistice Day was changed to Veterans Day on June 1, 1954,” the publication stated. The date is firmly set in the calendar, not changing year-to-year, in recognition of the original date.
Concord is a grateful town and salutes every one of its veterans.
In Concord, the Public Ceremonies and Celebration Committee plans the annual events. There’s an early morning march to Sleepy Hollow Cemetery culminating in a flag raising followed by a flag retirement ritual, cannon firing and music by a bagpiper. Veterans agent Dick Krug said participants come from many other towns.
But on this day, it’s the individual reflections that give pause. The fellow kneeling in front of a war memorial on Main St. The family gathered at the cemetery around the grave of a loved one. The soldier, standing erect, saluting his or her fellow compatriot The bugle playing Taps on the green. The quiet remarks and downcast eyes that seem to envelop the streets in town.
We’ll say it again. Concord is a grateful town and salutes every one of its veterans.
Thank you.
