While many recognize that World War I concluded on June 28, 1919, with the signing of the Treaty of Versailles, the fighting actually ended earlier, with an armistice between the Allied nations and Germany. This agreement took effect at the eleventh hour of the eleventh day of the eleventh month. To commemorate this occasion, President Woodrow Wilson announced November 11 as the first Armistice Day in 1919, marking it with a poignant reflection: “To us, in America, the reflections of Armistice Day will be filled with solemn pride in the heroism of those who died in the country’s service and with gratitude for the victory.” Over time, this day evolved into what we now celebrate as Veterans Day, maintaining the same spirit of appreciation.
For those who may not have personal connections with veterans, this November holiday can often feel like just another long weekend, a chance to enjoy one last barbecue before winter arrives. Many veterans, however, would likely prefer you to share in the fun rather than feel guilty about enjoying life. Everyone shows appreciation in their own way, and that’s perfectly okay.
Here’s a collection of quotes to honor our veterans, which you can share on social media or in cards to express your gratitude.
Veterans Day Quotes
- “This nation will remain the land of the free only so long as it is the home of the brave.” — Elmer Davis
- “Those that die for a good cause hover as a cloud of witnesses over the nation.” — Henry Ward Beecher
- “My heroes are those who risk their lives every day to protect our world and make it a better place — police, firefighters, and members of our armed forces.” — Sidney Sheldon
- “The secret of happiness is freedom, and the secret of freedom, courage.” — Thucydides
- “The true soldier fights not because he hates what is in front of him, but because he loves what is behind him.” — G.K. Chesterton
- “A true hero isn’t measured by the size of his strength, but by the strength of his heart.” — Hercules
- “Only our individual faith in freedom can keep us free.” — Dwight D. Eisenhower
- “The brave die never, though they sleep in dust: Their courage nerves a thousand living men.” — Minot J. Savage
- “I’ve lived the literal meaning of the ‘land of the free’ and ‘home of the brave.’ It’s not corny for me. I feel it in my heart. I feel it in my chest.” — Chris Kyle
- “As we express our gratitude, we must never forget that the highest appreciation is not to utter words, but to live by them.” — John F. Kennedy
How to Thank a Veteran
When it comes to expressing gratitude to veterans, it’s essential to remember that not all veterans are comfortable with being thanked. As José Narosky wisely noted, “In war, there are no unwounded soldiers.” Some veterans carry deep scars from their service and may not feel they deserve acknowledgment. It’s crucial to approach this with sensitivity.
If you’re close to a veteran, like a family member or a close friend, you likely know their preferences. Perhaps a simple social media post would suffice instead of an in-person acknowledgment. If you’re unsure, consider what they might appreciate, and avoid intrusive questions about their experiences.
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Summary
This article highlights various quotes to honor the sacrifices of veterans while also providing insights into how to respectfully thank them. It emphasizes the importance of understanding individual experiences and reactions to gratitude, ensuring that expressions of appreciation are thoughtful and considerate.
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