It’s a day the nation stops to thank those who left their families, their homes, and their lives behind to protect their country.
Veterans Day, which takes place on 11-11-11 this year, is a national holiday in which those who served their country are honored for their service.
A proclamation is made each year by the President of the United States. You can read Pres. Obama’s proclamation from this year by clicking this link.
Also on each Veteran’s Day, a wreath is placed on the Tomb of the Unknowns at Arlington National Cemetery, and events are held in communities around the nation.
The video below was created by the United States Department of Veterans Affairs as a way to honor those who have fought to keep the United States a safe country. It also offers you some ways to become involved in honoring and assisting veterans.
US Dept. of Veterans Affairs
On this Veterans Day, NBC25 wants to say “Thank You” to those who have and continue to fight for America’s freedom. On NBC25 Today we spoke with just one of many veterans who have served our country. You can hear his story in the video box at the top of this story.
Gov. Rick Snyder issued the following statement in observance of Veterans Day: “Michigan is proud to be the home of nearly 700,000 veterans. As we observe Veterans Day, let us reflect on their sacrifices as well as those of our men and women currently in uniform. Just as they bravely fulfilled their duties to us, we must meet our obligations to them. It is a commitment that we take seriously and are stepping up. Agencies across the state, including the Department of Military and Veterans Affairs and the Veterans’ Services Division of the Michigan Workforce Development Agency, are working hard to ensure that our veterans’ transition to civilian life is as smooth as possible and that they have resources and opportunities to successfully access programs and compete in the job market. Our veterans are wonderful role models, not only for their military service but also for their contributions to our communities upon their return. While we can never fully repay our debt to them, let us make sure they know how much we appreciate their service to Michigan and America. I ask all Michiganders to join me in thanking our veterans for ensuring the liberties and quality of life that we enjoy.”
NBC25's Dan Armstrong spoke with families who have lost loved ones that served at the Great Lakes National Cemetery in Holly Township.
The Beckon family traveled all the way from Detroit to see the stone of J.C. Beckon, Jr. "I went through war, and I didn't get killed so it's a blessing that I didn't, but my son did."
J.C. Beckon, Sr., served in World War II. His son died in Vietnam. His brother died on a ship in World War II. "It brings lots of memories back," says Beckon while walking around the cemetery.
He spent the day finding his relatives' names and remembering the good times.
Meanwhile, Harold Parks received a visit from his wife Cindy. Harold passed away three months ago. The air force veteran died of cancer.
"He was an amazing man. He served our country, and he fought his cancer the same way he served our country with a lot of dignity and strength," says Cindy Parks.
It's that dignity and strength Cindy hopes others feel as they pass by her husband's tombstone.
He battled cancer for four and a half years.
Cindy knew this day would come, and hopes others take a moment to reflect.
"We're very fortunate to live in this wonderful country that we live in and I only wish our younger generations realize just how fortunate," says Cindy.
The Department of Veterans Affairs furnishes upon request, at no charge to the applicant, a government headstone or marker for the unmarked grave of any deceased veteran regardless of their date of death.
We're giving you the opportunity to honor our heroes and thank them for their dedication to their country. Leave your "thanks" in the comment section below or on the NBC25 Facebook Page.
