Whereas the legislatures of twenty-seven of our States have already declared November 11 to be a legal holiday: Therefore be it Resolved by the Senate (the House of Representatives concurring), that the President of the United States is requested to issue a proclamation calling upon the officials to display the flag of the United States on all Government buildings on November 11 and inviting the people of the United States to observe the day in schools and churches, or other suitable places, with appropriate ceremonies of friendly relations with all other peoples.
Concurrent Resolution of Congress, June 4, 1926, recognizing the official end of World War I .
World War I – known at the time as “The Great War” – officially ended when the Treaty of Versailles was signed on June 28, 1919, in the Palace of Versailles outside the town of Versailles, France. However, fighting ceased seven months earlier when an armistice, or temporary cessation of hostilities, between the Allied nations and Germany went into effect on the eleventh hour of the eleventh day of the eleventh month. For that reason, November 11, 1918, is generally regarded as the end of “the war to end all wars.
Excerpt from the U.S. Department of Veteran Affairs https://www.va.gov/opa/vetsday/vetdayhistory.asp
This weekend the National World War I Museum and Memorial and the Harry S. Truman Library and Museum have events observing the national holiday.
As the commemoration of World War I Centennial continues, there is no place more fitting to recognize and honor those who have served their country on Veterans Day Weekend than at the National World War I Museum and Memorial. During the weekend (Friday, Nov. 10 – Sunday, Nov. 12), veterans and active duty military personnel receive free admission, while the general public receives half-price admission.
On Veterans Day, activities include a public ceremony at 10 a.m. featuring dignitaries, a keynote address from Major General Maria R. Gervais, Deputy Commanding General, Combined Arms Center, and inspirational performances from The American Legion Band of Greater Kansas City Wind Ensemble and the Regency Place Special Chorus. The Museum is offering a host of activities throughout the weekend, including the ability to “find your WWI connection” through research stations, the chance to climb aboard/inspect a Vietnam-era Huey helicopter, child-friendly programs and more.
The weekend also marks the debut of the Hope 22: Dark to Light photo exhibition showcasing stories of local veterans through a series of photographs designed to raise awareness about a Veterans Affairs report that, on average, 22 veterans are killed by suicide each day. For the complete schedule of events, visit theworldwar.org/veteransday.
Written By: Frank Cook
