Veterans Day, celebrated each year on November 11th, is a day dedicated to honoring those who have served in the United States Armed Forces. This day originated as Armistice Day, commemorating the end of World War I, when, on the eleventh hour of the eleventh day of the eleventh month in 1918, fighting ceased. Armistice Day was initially a day to honor World War I Veterans, but in 1954, after the heroism shown in World War II and the Korean War, Congress changed the name to Veterans Day to honor all Veterans of the U.S. military, past and present.
Veterans Day is now a time to express gratitude and reflect on the contributions Veterans have made for our freedom and security. But beyond ceremonies, furniture sales, and maybe a day off, there is a meaningful way to honor Veterans’ sacrifices: by giving back to the Veterans who continue to serve long after their military duty has ended.
Veterans are known not only for their service in uniform but also for their commitment to their communities once they return to civilian life. Many Veterans volunteer in local organizations, provide mentorship, and support various causes, motivated by a strong sense of duty and a desire to make a positive impact. Their service-minded spirit continues, whether through volunteer work, coaching youth sports, helping in food banks, or participating in community projects. Veterans’ ongoing commitment to service is a reminder that the spirit of Veterans Day can extend far beyond a single day.
One of the most effective ways to honor our Veterans is to join them in this spirit of service. Volunteering in support of Veterans can be as simple as spending an hour listening to their stories, assisting them with tasks they may find challenging, or helping in programs aimed at Veterans’ wellbeing. In our community, there are opportunities to volunteer and make a difference in a Veteran’s life. Giving just an hour of your time can have a meaningful impact, whether you choose to help at a local nursing home, assist with transportation, or participate in an event supporting Veterans’ causes.
A few motivated individuals are interested in taking this a step further. In an upcoming article, I will share more about their initiative, Operation V4V (Volunteers for Veterans), to volunteer and provide hands-on support for Veterans.
This Veterans Day, as we honor those who served, consider how you can contribute to a lasting legacy of gratitude. By volunteering, you not only honor Veterans but also strengthen the community they served to protect. Your time, kindness, and commitment to service are a powerful way to say “Thank you.”
Brad Anderson and Melissa Crandall are the Lake County Veterans Service Officers and can be reached at 218.834.8326 or cvso@co.lake.mn.us
Karen Christianson is the Cook County Veterans Service Officer and can be reached at 218.387.3639, or karen.christianson@co.cook.mn.us
