The eleventh hour, of the eleventh day, in the eleventh month

The following is a column by Lieutenant Governor Mark Parkinson:

The eleventh hour of the eleventh day in the eleventh month of 1918 marked the official end to World War I – Armistice Day.

Years later, in 1953, the townspeople of Emporia, Kansas wanted to not only celebrate those who had served in the armed forces, but also those currently serving. Thus, they held a Veterans’ Day observance.

One townsman liked this idea so much he introduced a bill renaming Armistice Day to Veterans Day - and the idea caught on.

We remember this as a national holiday, honoring those who have served and are currently serving in our military.   However, unlike many other U.S. holidays, Veterans Day’s historical significance is preserved in a different way: on the same day of every year – November 11th. 

It is Veterans Day in which our nation recognizes patriotism, love of our country and passion for service.  We recognize the willingness of veterans who have sacrificed their lives for the benefit of our country’s freedom.  We acknowledge them with honor.

As we pay tribute to the men and women stationed around the globe, we also remember their families who wait patiently at home – praying.  We pray with them.

On Veterans Day, our nation unites. 

On the eleventh day in the eleventh month of 2007, a new veterans’ cemetery was dedicated on land donated by Fort Riley.  The creation of this site is a small gesture to honor and celebrate their lives.   

As Kansas continues to be the home for so many service men and woman, so too are we the final resting place for many veterans. We honor them in death with reverence, just as they honored us in life with service.

United, we pay tribute to those stationed overseas. Together, we pray for the safe return of husbands and wives, fathers and mothers, sons and daughters.

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