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MARINE CORPS AIR STATION NEW RIVER, N.C. (MCN - 11/9/2011) — With
two wars and numerous operations throughout the past decade,
Marines, sailors, soldiers and airmen can find pride in their
service. Nov. 11 is a day Americans can honor military veterans of
all branches of service and celebrate what they have done to help
keep this country safe.
Those who have served or are serving in the United States military can celebrate their service to their country on Veterans Day, Nov. 11.
Photo by USMC Lance Cpl. John Suleski, Nov. 8, 2011
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Originally known as Armistice Day, the holiday commemorated the end
of World War I and honored the men and women who sacrificed for the
war, according to the Department of Veterans Affairs. It was
celebrated every year Nov. 11, the day both sides ceased fire in
1918.
After World War II and the Korean War, Congress
changed the name to Veterans Day, in order to honor veterans of
every era.
Former president Dwight D. Eisenhower
wrote, “On that day let us solemnly remember the sacrifices of all
those who fought so valiantly, on the seas, in the air, and on
foreign shores, to preserve our heritage of freedom ... ”
It is
a day America doesn't forget. Neighbors raise flags on their houses,
cities set up parades and businesses give discounts to past and
present service members.
But, Veterans Day has a deeper
meaning than a day off work, parades or free food. |
Sgt. Jeffrey D. Rymoff Jr., Marine Wing Support Squadron
272 motor transport training non-commissioned officer, said
everyone should have pride in their service, no matter how
much they believe miniscule their roles are in the military.
“Everybody has a part,” said Rymoff. “I guess that‘s one
of the best things about the military. Even if you aren‘t
readily engaged in the fight, you are still supporting
somebody who is.”
He joined the military May 12,
2003. Before joining the Corps, he said he had multiple jobs
as a driver and a blacksmith making horseshoes.
“I
woke up one day and didn't want to do it anymore,” said
Rymoff. “So, I joined the Marine Corps.”
Eight years
later, Rymoff returned from his third deployment with the
rest of his squadron last month and is on post-deployment
leave to see his family in Pennsylvania.
Everyone
from family members to complete strangers can honor the
sacrifices of American heroes this Veterans Day, Rymoff
added.
“It's a good holiday as long as the American
people stand behind the veterans,” said Rymoff. “They should
be there for the ones that are hurt or are dealing with
problems from deployments.”
Veterans Day is a good
opportunity to think about the service and sacrifice of
those who have sworn an oath to defend this country against
all enemies, foreign and domestic.
By USMC Lance Cpl. John Suleski
Marine Corps Air Station New
River
Marine Corps News
Copyright 2011
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