In 1954, President Dwight D. Eisenhower officially changed the holiday known as Armistice Day to Veterans Day. It is a day set aside to remember and honor the service and sacrifices of Veterans who serve and have served in all branches of the military. For many of us, we thank those who served and remember those actively serving today. But have you ever asked a Veteran about what Veterans Day means to them? We recently asked some of our clients.

Veterans Day means honoring all those who sacrificed themselves for our country, and every Veterans Day, I still get tears in my eyes. – R.K.

It’s a day to celebrate the sacrifice the vets made, and it’s a day that seems to be getting lost. – T.B.

The number of military personnel who gave their life for this country is not often reflected in totality. The total number of fatalities in the American Civil War is estimated at around 620,000. This astounding number is slightly below the 684,701 deaths in all other wars combined. This brings the total number of deaths in all major wars from 1775 to 2021 to be approximately 1,304,701.     

 Veterans Day means a lot to me. I was a combat veteran in Korea. I spent my time serving my country. – J.R.

The Korean Conflict is often referred to as the forgotten war. This is because newspapers and television did not properly cover the war, causing many Americans to forget about it before it ended in 1953. However, the 5.7 million American men and women who served in the Korean war have not forgotten and have their own memories which have stayed with them for over 70 years. 

It’s the only holiday that has only the Veterans in mind. Unlike Memorial Day or any other holiday, Veterans Day is about the survivors. – G.J.

Veterans Day means to be classified as being important, and that’s recognition. – R.W.

According to the U.S. Bureau, in 2019, there were more than 18 million Veterans in the United States, which is approximately 5.4% of the overall U.S. population. This includes 15.78 million male Veterans and 1.64 million female Veterans. Veterans Day is a tribute to military Veterans who have served in the U.S. Armed Forces. Although Memorial Day honors those who died while in service, Veterans Day honors all military veterans.

Vietnam vets were not treated very well after that war. After 9/11, vets have gotten respect. Every day is Veterans Day for me, the way people thank me and help me daily, showing their respect. – E.M

It’s when we, as Vets, have a chance to be recognized. Other people say thank you and appreciate the time we have invested in service to our country. – P.C.

A Day to remember all the Veterans that are still with us and the sacrifices they have made to serve our country. – M.B. & A. B.

When the American soldiers returned home from World War II in 1945, they were greeted as heroes. But the homecoming was very different for Vietnam veterans. They came back to find the United States divided over the Vietnam War. There were no victory parades or welcome-home rallies. Instead, most Vietnam veterans returned to disrespect and anger toward the Veterans. As a result, today, Americans make it a point to thank our Veterans. On November 19, 2019, former Vice President Mike Pence stood at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier and said these words, “I see men and women who served in World War II, in the Korean War, Vietnam, Iraq, and Afghanistan. I see many more who have stood watch over our country in times of peace, so if you’ve worn the uniform of the United States of America, would you please stand and give us an opportunity to show the gratitude of this nation for your service?”  

Veterans Day brings me memories of the service and pride I had wearing the uniform. I reflect on that. – W.H.

Veterans either volunteered or were drafted to serve their country. Some endured extreme weather, rugged terrain, went days without a bath, a hot meal, or a good night’s sleep. Some served in support roles stateside, and some treated the wounded or carried the dead. Many of our war-time Veterans returned with physical and psychological wounds which remain with them today. Veterans served in critical roles during peacetime to prevent unstable situations from developing into a conflict or another war. Those who put on the uniform deserve honor and our respect for their service to our country.

Whether a peacetime or war-time Veteran, as a nation, we appreciate the investment and sacrifices they made as they served. We at Veterans Care Coordination believe all Veterans are American heroes.

 

Source: Statista.com

Posted in Care for Aging Veterans
Avatar photo

About Cheryl Hammons CFE, CSA

Cheryl Hammons is an experienced home care professional, published author, and frequent speaker. She has held several roles throughout her 12 years in the home care industry, including training, support, and operations. She currently serves as Strategic Partnership Director at Veterans Care Coordination where she focuses on building value-driven relationships, developing revenue-generating programs, and creating educational materials for home care partner companies. Cheryl is the author of "Embracing a New Normal: Dealing with Grief" and "Respecting Religious Differences in Home Care."