Fortitude Fridays #35

read time: 6 mins

A few ideas as you head into the weekend.

Today at a Glance:

• Quote: Gratitude from our 33rd President.
• The History: Veterans Day.
• Book: The Hero Code: Lessons Learned from Lives Well Lived by Admiral William H. McRaven
• Thoughts: Eleven Ways to Honor and Support Veterans
• Interesting: Did You Know?

​
​A sincere thank you to all veterans for your incredible sacrifices, unwavering dedication, and inspiring bravery in safeguarding our cherished values and freedoms. Your contributions are deeply appreciated, and your courage will always be remembered.

 

---

 

Quote To Ponder:

​

"Our debt to the heroic men and valiant women in the service of our country can never be repaid. They have earned our undying gratitude. America will never forget their sacrifices."

-Harry S. Truman (33rd United States President)

 May we never forget. Thank you for your service.

 

---

 

The History:

Veterans Day, originally known as Armistice Day, commemorates the end of World War I. The armistice between the Allied nations and Germany went into effect on the eleventh hour of the eleventh day of the eleventh month in 1918, marking the cessation of hostilities on the Western Front. The following year, on November 11, 1919, President Woodrow Wilson proclaimed November 11 as Armistice Day, a day to honor the veterans of World War I.

In 1938, Congress passed a bill making Armistice Day a legal holiday dedicated to world peace, but it was primarily focused on honoring World War I veterans. However, after World War II and the Korean War, it became apparent that the United States needed a way to honor all veterans. In 1954, President Dwight D. Eisenhower signed a bill into law officially changing the name of the holiday from Armistice Day to Veterans Day. This amendment broadened the scope of the day to honor American veterans of all wars.

Important to note: Memorial Day is dedicated to remembering and honoring military personnel who have died in the service of their country, while Veterans Day pays tribute to all American veterans, living or dead, but especially honors living veterans for their sacrifices and contributions.

 

---

 

Book To Check Out:

The Hero Code: Lessons Learned from Lives Well Lived

by Admiral William H. McRaven

 Admiral William H. McRaven is a retired U.S. Navy Admiral and former Navy SEAL known for leading the operation that resulted in Osama bin Laden's neutralization in 2011. He served as the commander of the United States Special Operations Command. In addition to his military career, he served as the Chancellor of the University of Texas System from 2015 to 2018.

In his book, Admiral William McRaven shares short stories from his career, exemplifying the key components he defines as "The Hero Code." Through personal anecdotes, McRaven explores qualities such as courage and duty, offering an inspiring and poignant look at the essence of heroism. This book serves as McRaven's tribute to everyday heroes he has encountered globally, emphasizing the importance of qualities like courage, humility, sacrifice, and integrity that empower us to make a positive impact without the need for superpowers or capes.

I'm an unabashed admirer of Admiral McRaven's blend of wit, humility, and no-nonsense outlook on life. My initiation into his insightful philosophy began with his unforgettable commencement speech that captivated me years ago, a spark that ignited my interest in his best selling book, "Make Your Bed: Little Things That Can Change Your Life...And Maybe the World." Since then, I've devoured all of his books and often shared them as gifts.

**He also reads the audio version of his books and he gives a great performance.

Take Away: THE HERO CODE represents a set of guiding principles and virtues. It serves as a code of conduct, offering lessons in character development that can serve as the bedrock for a life characterized by honor and respect.

 

---

 

Growing up as the daughter of a Navy Vietnam War veteran instilled in me a profound reverence for our flag, country, and the soldiers safeguarding our nation. While we annually observe Veterans Day on November 11th, I encourage honoring our veterans year round in a manner that pays respect to their service and sacrifice.

Life is unpredictable, and each person carries their own hidden struggles. You never know the battles someone is facing, and you might just be the unexpected source of support that helps them navigate through the challenges.

Here are a few ideas:

1. Attend Veterans Day Events: Participate in local Veterans Day ceremonies, parades, or events to show your support and appreciation for veterans. Contacting your local legion post can also give you more info on opportunities to participate, donate or volunteer for these events. You can also visit the America Legion website for more information.
2. A Moment of Silence for Gratitude: 11th Hour of the 11th Day of the 11th Month. This specific time and date, November 11th at 11:00 AM, holds significance as it marks the armistice that ended World War I.
3. Visit Veterans Memorials: Spend time at veterans memorials or military cemeteries to reflect on the sacrifices made by those who served. Consider leaving flowers or flags to honor the fallen. Arlington Cemetery hosts an annual event that is open to the public.
4. Volunteer at VA Facilities: Offer your time and assistance at Veterans Affairs (VA) hospitals, clinics, or other facilities. Many veterans appreciate the companionship, and your help can make a positive impact. Visit Veterans Affairs to find information on locations, benefits, programs and resources near you.
5. Donate to Veterans Charities: Contribute to organizations that support veterans. Numerous charities and nonprofits provide services and assistance to veterans and their families. Here are a few places to start: Wounded Warriors Project which has many programs and services for service members returning from service. Honor Flight which celebrates Veterans with a day of honor at our nation's memorials. Disabled American Veterans offers support to veterans of all generations. The Volunteers of America offers supportive resources and many multifaceted programs to help serve veterans and their families. The American Legion and Veterans of Foreign Wars are additional great places for donations and resources for veterans and their families.
6. Send Care Packages: Create and send care packages to deployed service members. Include items like snacks, toiletries, and handwritten letters of appreciation. Operation Gratitude sends both care packages and letters to troops.
7. Employ Veterans: If you have the ability to hire, actively recruit and hire veterans. Many possess valuable skills and experiences that can benefit your organization.
8. Listen to Veterans' Stories: Take the time to listen to veterans share their experiences. Your genuine interest and willingness to listen can be meaningful for them. While it made be difficult for some to share all of their experiences, many are willing to share the parts they feel comfortable with and they find joy and healing through it.
9. Support Veteran-Owned Businesses: Choose to support businesses owned by veterans. This can include local shops or larger enterprises. You can tap into the American Veteran Owned Business Association that lists veteran owned businesses by state.
10. Educate Others: Raise awareness about the challenges veterans face, such as post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and homelessness. Education can lead to greater understanding and support and the American Legion's BE THE ONE Program offers information and resources on Veteran Suicide Prevention. The Veteran Crisis Line is available 24/7 for veterans, service members and their families. Just Dial 988 and then press 1, or text 838255 and you will be connected to a live, trained crisis responder immediately. You do not have to be enrolled in VA Benefits or health care to call.
11. Express Gratitude Personally: Simply say "thank you for your service" when you encounter veterans. A sincere expression of gratitude can mean so much to those who have served.

Bringing it Home:

Keep in mind that expressing gratitude to our veterans goes beyond designated dates or occasions. Meaningful gestures of appreciation, regardless of size, can make a significant impact at any time throughout the year.

 

---

 

Interesting:

Did you know that Veterans Day is celebrated with a specific theme each year? In 2023, the theme is 'Service,' highlighting the dedication and commitment of our veterans.

Also, the term "Veterans Day" is used without an apostrophe, and it is the correct and official spelling. The reason for this is that Veterans Day is not a day that "belongs" to veterans; rather, it is a day to honor and celebrate all veterans collectively. The absence of an apostrophe is intentional to indicate that the day is not possessive but rather a day for honoring and remembering veterans as a group.

---

Thanks for reading this special edition and I hope you have an commemorative weekend!

You got this,