| Veterans Day - "Freedom is Not Free" | |
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In October of 2001, President Bush announced the Lessons of Liberty Initiative as a way for students to learn about America and its values, as well as the men and women who have been called on to defend our freedom -- veterans.
"We must remember that many who served in our military never lived to be called veterans. We must remember many had their lives changed forever by experiences or the injuries of combat. All veterans are examples of service and citizenship for every American to remember and to follow." -- President George W. Bush, Oct. 30, 2001
Some Veterans Day Facts
- Regardless of the day of the week, Veterans Day is observed on November 11.
- The date was chosen to commemorate World War I, which ended on November 11, 1918.
- Veterans Day was established by Congress on June 4, 1926. [History of Veterans Day]
- The purpose of Veterans Day and Memorial Day are often confused. Memorial Day is for honoring military personnel who died in service to their country. Veterans Day is for thanking ALL men and women who have served honorably in the military during times of war and peace.
"We're a nation of patriots. The attacks of September 11th, and the attacks that have followed, were designed to break our spirit. But instead, they've created a new spirit in America. We have a renewed spirit of patriotism. We see it in the countless flags that are flying everywhere in America. We hear it in familiar phrases that move us more deeply than ever before." -- President George W. Bush, Oct. 30, 2001
President Bush's 2006 Veterans Day Proclamation
"Through their commitment to freedom, America's veterans have lifted millions of lives and made our country and the world more secure. They have demonstrated to us that freedom is the mightiest force on Earth. We resolve that their sacrifices will always be remembered by a grateful Nation." -- President Bush, Veteran's Day Proclamation, Oct. 31, 2006
Some Facts About Veterans
- There are currently about 25 million living veterans.
- Over 48 million Americans have served in the military during war and peace since 1776.
- Every year, about 80,000 veterans are buried in one of the cemeteries of the National Cemetery system.
"Americans should always honor our veterans. At this moment, we especially need the example of their character. And we need a new generation to set examples of its own, examples in service and sacrifice and courage. These veterans have shaped our history, and with their values, your generation will help guide our future." -- President George W. Bush, Oct. 30, 2001
Lessons of Liberty Web Site
The "Lessons of Liberty" initiative is an opportunity for American students to learn more about our country and its values, as well as the people that have been called upon to defend its freedom.
Arlington National Cemetery
More than 260,000 people are buried at Arlington Cemetery. Veterans from all the nation's wars are buried in the cemetery, from the American Revolution through the Persian Gulf War and Somalia. Pre-Civil War dead were reinterred after 1900.
American War Dead
The American Battle Monument Commission maintains this list honoring every American who has given their life in battle. Includes lists from the Mexican War, Civil War, Spanish-American War, WWI, WWII, Korea, and Vietnam.
The Virtual Wall
All 58,196 names engraved with honor on the Vietnam Memorial. Includes biographic information and audio remembrances on a wonderful Web site. "...Never forget the names, the names, the names - for they hold the answer."
