Veterans Day: 'Solemn Pride In Heroism'

Veterans Day began as Armistice Day, an occasion for "solemn pride in the heroism of those who died in the country's service and with gratitude for the victory," according to the proclamation of President Woodrow Wilson.

The victory was the end of World War I, known at the time as The Great War. According to the Army's Center of Military History:

The original concept for the celebration was for the suspension of business for a two minute period beginning at 11 A.M., with the day also marked by parades and public mettings.

In 1954, President Eisenhower officially changed the name of the holiday to Veterans Day. The date of observation was changed to October for a bit before returning to Nov. 11.

The staff of Patch would like to thank the men and women who have served in the military. We are always interested in covering military topics. If you have an idea for a story about a local soldier or veteran, or one of the civilians who support them, please let us know.

Tredyffrin-Easttown Patch has an up with information about veterans in America. There are 21.8 million veterans in the country, and about 15.8 million of them voted in the 2008 presidential election.

Pottstown Patch has a great remembrance of a respected who died this week. He would have turned 72 this Veterans Day.