This weekend is another long holiday weekend! As we enjoy the time getting ready for the holidays, preparing our shopping lists for Black Friday, and cleaning up the yard in anticipation of the first snow, we need to remember why we actually have a long weekend. We need to pause to honor the men and women who have worn the uniform of our nation’s Armed Forces. Veterans Day is more than a date on the calendar, it’s a reminder of the service, sacrifice, and enduring commitment of those who have defended our freedoms, both in times of war and peace.

The origins of Veterans Day go back to the final hours of World War I. On Nov. 11, 1918, the guns fell silent as the Allies and Germany signed an armistice to end what was then called “the war to end all wars.” In 1919, President Woodrow Wilson proclaimed Nov. 11 as Armistice Day, dedicated to those who served in that devastating conflict. After World War II and the Korean War, veterans’ organizations urged that the day be expanded to honor all who served, not just those from World War I. In 1954, President Dwight D. Eisenhower signed legislation officially changing the name to Veterans Day.

In 1968, Congress tried to change the holiday by passing the Uniform Holiday Bill, which moved several federal holidays to the fourth Monday in October beginning in 1971. Veterans’ groups objected, feeling it dishonored the historic Armistice date, so in 1975 Congress passed a law returning the observance to Nov. 11, effective in 1978.

Veterans Day is not about remembering the fallen, that’s Memorial Day. It’s about expressing gratitude to the living and acknowledging the continued contributions veterans make in their communities. Memorial Day is a solemn occasion dedicated to remembering those who died in military service, those who never returned home. Veterans Day, by contrast, celebrates all who served, including those still with us. On Memorial Day, we remember the cost of freedom; on Veterans Day, we thank those who have borne the burden.

So, on Nov. 11, take a moment to thank a veteran. Many veterans wear their service “covers” (ball caps to you civilians), so take a second to thank them for their service; it never gets old. If you’re not driving, look at the veterans’ banners proudly displayed on telephone poles throughout the region and thank them as you go by. They will soon be coming down … but they will never be forgotten. We look forward to seeing them again in the spring, with more being added, I’m sure.

Thanksgiving is fast approaching. The American Legion is once again hosting a community free Thanksgiving dinner on Saturday, Nov. 22, from 2 to 6 p.m. And again, members of the community will have their annual free Christmas dinner from 11:30 a.m. to 2 p.m. at the Legion Hall. Reservations can be made at (207) 350-6686. If you need a ride, give them a call.

Thank you for your service, my brothers and sisters! I’m proud to be one of you!