There have been millions of Veterans since the founding of this great country, the United States of America.

One of the greatest advocates of taking care of Veterans of Wars was none other than the honorable President Abraham Lincoln who said,

"To care for him who shall have borne the battle, and for his widow and his orphan."
-- Abraham Lincoln

With the approval of this legislation (Public Law 380) on June 1, 1954, November 11th became a day to honor American veterans of all wars. Veterans Day.

Since these men gave there lives for us, there needed to be some way to compensate for there sacrifice. One means was through the celebration of Veterans Day. 

Of the 25 million veterans currently alive, nearly three of every four served during a war or an official period of hostility. About a quarter of the nation's population -- approximately 70 million people -- are potentially eligible for VA benefits and services because they are veterans, family members or survivors of veterans. (Source: VA website)

"The United States has the most comprehensive system of assistance for veterans of any nation in the world. This benefits system traces its roots back to 1636, when the Pilgrims of Plymouth Colony were at war with the Pequot Indians. The Pilgrims passed a law which stated that disabled soldiers would be supported by the colony."  (quote) For more info click on this link: VA History

I am proud to say I've worked for about 20  years as an R.N. at the Veterans Hospital in Seattle, taking care of Veterans. 

My dad was a WWII veteran, flew in the B-17 over Nazi Germany during 1944-45. He was a tail gunner.  He survived an amazing 35 missions. WOW! He was only 20 years old at the time. At the age of 82 he passed away. I honor him for his part in the war effort. Just think if we, along with the British, hadn't won that war, were we would be today. Maybe not!

For those who served our country and either died in battle, or have since died, there is Memorial Day. Memorial Day was officially proclaimed on 5 May 1868 by General John Logan. Memorial Day, originally called Decoration Day, is a day of remembrance for those who have died in our nation's service. Memorial Day link: Click here

It's great that they finally built a memorial for the WWII Vets, which was dedicated May 29th, 2004. Link: Click here