Sunday is Veterans Day, a time to say, “Thank you for your service,” to men and women who were in the military. The public has many opportunities to observe this American holiday, including a veterans’ salute this morning at Great Bend High School and a luncheon Sunday at the St. Rose Auditorium. We mention these two events in particular because they involve young people — the students of GBHS and the Youth Group at the Prince of Peace Parish.

“We want to honor our vets and show and teach our youth about service to our community and teach them what an honor it is to serve our country,” said Rose Duvall at Prince of Peace.

The U.S. Department of Defense (www.defense.gov) notes a few facts to know about Veterans Day, starting with how it is spelled — no apostrophes needed! Second, it is not to be confused with Memorial Day, when we remember those who gave their lives for our country. “Veterans Day honors all of those who have served the country in war or peace — dead or alive — although it’s largely intended to thank living veterans for their sacrifices.”

Veterans Day was originally called Armistice Day, commemorating the end of World War I. In the 1970s there was a bill that set Veterans Day commemorations on the fourth Monday of every October, which created a lot of confusion. In 1975, President Gerald Ford signed Public Law 94-97, which returned the annual observance to its original date starting in 1978.

Canada and Australia both celebrate Veterans Day on Nov. 11, but call it “Remembrance Day.” Great Britain celebrates Remembrance Day on the Sunday closest to Nov. 11. 

To all who wore a uniform, thank you.