On the 11^th hour of the 11^th day of the 11^th month of 1918, an armistice was established marking the beginning of the end of World War I. Commemorated as Armistice Day the following year, November 11^th became a legal federal holiday in the United States in 1938 to honor veterans of the first World War. Following World War II and the Korean War, Armistice Day became Veterans Day, dedicated to all military veterans .

Each year, Veterans Day affords Americans everywhere the opportunity to pay tribute to all members of the military who have served our country. Many of us mark the day by watching veterans march down city streets, by hanging ribbons or flags from our homes, and participating in other ceremonies remembering those who have protected our freedoms. A wreath-laying ceremony is held each Veterans Day at the 11^th hour at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier in Arlington National Cemetery.

We owe our freedom to every valiant service member, including Wright Beamer's own veteran, Duane Reynolds. On this day, we give our humble thanks to Duane and all men and women who have served and honor the great sacrifices made by members of the U.S. armed forces and their families to protect our country.