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By Prof. Indrajit S. Saluja
As America pauses on November 11 to salute its defenders, the day’s solemn history, its civic purpose, and the unfinished duty of caring for veterans remind us that patriotism must live not only in our words but in our deeds.
Every year, on November 11, the United States pauses to honor those who have stood in uniform — men and women who have borne the weight of duty, discipline, and danger in defense of their nation. Veterans Day is more than a ceremonial observance marked by parades and speeches; it is a day of national reflection, gratitude, and resolve — to remember the sacrifices of those who fought for liberty and to renew the nation’s commitment to their welfare when the guns fall silent.
A DAY ROOTED IN HISTORY
The origins of Veterans Day trace back to the closing chapter of World War I, a conflict once described as “the war to end all wars.” On the eleventh hour of the eleventh day of the eleventh month in 1918, the armistice between the Allied powers and Germany took effect, ending the bloodiest war the modern world had then known.
In 1919, President Woodrow Wilson proclaimed November 11 as Armistice Day, honoring the heroism of those who served and celebrating the triumph of peace.
But as history unfolded, new generations went to war. After World War II and the Korean conflict, Congress amended the 1938 Act, and in 1954 President Dwight D. Eisenhower signed the proclamation renaming it Veterans Day — a tribute to all who served, in war or peace, living or deceased.
THE PURPOSE AND THE PROMISE
Veterans Day differs from Memorial Day: it honors not only those who died but all who have worn the nation’s uniform. It seeks to recognize valor, remind the nation of the cost of freedom, and inspire civic unity.
At its core, Veterans Day calls every American to go beyond ceremony — to acknowledge not just the battles fought abroad but the struggles many veterans face at home.
CELEBRATION ACROSS THE NATION
The most solemn ceremony takes place at Arlington National Cemetery, where the President lays a wreath at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier. Across the country, parades, school programs, community luncheons, and interfaith services fill the day with color and reverence.
“The nation’s gratitude must be measured not in words but in care.”
Businesses extend small courtesies, offering meals or discounts. Yet, beyond these gestures, the true measure of national gratitude lies in sustained care and opportunity for those who once stood guard.
THE FORGOTTEN FRONT: CARE AND NEGLECT
Behind the bright parades lies a troubling reality. For too many, homecoming brings hardship, not peace.
More than 33,000 veterans remain homeless nationwide. Nearly one in four post-9/11 veterans struggles with PTSD or depression. And 17 veterans die by suicide every day — a number that should haunt America’s conscience.
Access to timely healthcare remains uneven, particularly in rural areas. Bureaucratic backlogs persist, despite improvements and the passage of the 2022 PACT Act. Employment transitions can be rocky; translating military skills to civilian careers is often difficult.
“Each homeless veteran is a promise the nation has not kept.”
THE MORAL OBLIGATION
“Support our troops” must mean more than wartime rhetoric. It must take the form of comprehensive healthcare, affordable housing, job training, and mental-health resources.
Government, corporate America, and community organizations share this duty. Companies can expand veteran hiring and mentorship programs; schools can teach the living history of service and sacrifice.
A grateful nation does not salute once a year — it sustains its veterans all year.
PATRIOTISM RENEWED
Veterans Day is a renewal of America’s founding ideals — liberty, justice, equality, compassion. It reminds citizens that true patriotism is proven by how we care for those who have already paid the price of freedom.
As President John F. Kennedy observed:
“As we express our gratitude, we must never forget that the highest appreciation is not to utter words, but to live by them.”
A CONTINUING LEGACY
From the Revolution to Afghanistan, more than 41 million Americans have served in uniform. Their stories span centuries, yet share the same thread — faith in a cause larger than self.
The younger generation of veterans brings that same courage into civilian life, enriching workplaces, communities, and public service. The nation must harness that strength with opportunity and respect.
TOWARD A MORE GRATEFUL NATION
To make Veterans Day meaningful, America must act on three fronts:
Universal Access to Care: Every veteran must receive timely, quality medical and mental-health services.
End Veteran Homelessness: No one who has defended freedom should sleep without shelter.
Support Families of Veterans: Extend education, counseling, and employment support to those who share the burdens of service.
“Patriotism lives not in applause but in action.”
A SALUTE BEYOND THE PARADE
As the flags wave and the bands play, let every citizen remember: our freedom is daily guarded by those who once risked everything for it. Veterans Day calls us not merely to remember but to serve — to build a country worthy of their sacrifice.
In the quiet dignity of the veteran lies America’s enduring strength — its conscience, courage, and continuity.
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