Community

Salute to Veterans This Friday, November 11th

November 09 2022

Commissioner R. Jack Cagle is welcoming the entire community to join him in his “Salute to Veterans” on Friday, Nov. 11, from 6 to 8 p.m. at the Richard & Meg Weekley Community Center, located at 8440 Greenhouse Road in Cypress. Join us for this tribute to honor the courageous men and women who have served or are serving in the United States armed forces. Guests will enjoy patriotic music performed by the Brass Ensemble of Houston, special guest speakers, and light refreshments.

Transportation is available for those 50 and older from the following locations, departing at 5 p.m.:

Bayland Community Center, 6400 Bissonnet in Houston
Steve Radack Community Center, 18650 Clay Road in Houston
Hockley Community Center, 26515 Old Washington Road in Hockley
Mary Jo Peckham Aquatic and Fitness Center, 5597 Gardenia Lane in Katy
Tracy Gee Community Center, 3599 Westcenter Drive in Houston

The “Salute to Veterans” is free, but reservations are required. Please register online at www.hcp4.net/events or call 713-274-4050 for assistance.

The Significance Of Veteran’s Day For Americans

Veterans Day is an important day for every American and is intended to honor and appreciate all servicemen who served the United States in all wars, mainly living veterans. On this day, parades and church services are organized, and in many places, the American flag is hung at half-mast. Sometimes a period of silence lasting two minutes is held at 11 am. Many schools are closed on Veterans Day, while others do not close, but choose to mark the occasion with special cultural activities.

When Is Veteran’s Day Celebrated?

Veterans Day is observed on November 11. Whenever it falls on a weekday, several communities celebrate on the weekend closest to this date. This is to help more people attend and participate in the events. On November 11, Federal Government offices are closed. If Veterans Day falls on a Saturday, they are closed on Friday, November 10. If Veterans Day falls on a Sunday, they are closed on Monday, November 12. State and local governments, schools, and non-governmental businesses are not required to close and have the option to remain open or closed.

The History Behind Veteran’s Day

An armistice between the Allied nations and Germany came into existence on the 11th hour of the 11th day of the 11th month of 1918. On November 11, 1919, Armistice Day was commemorated for the first time ever. There were plans for public meetings, parades, and a brief suspension of business activities at 11 am.

In 1919, President Wilson declared the day should be “filled with solemn pride in the heroism of those who died in the country’s service and with gratitude for the victory.”

In 1926, the United States Congress officially declared the end of World War I and said that the anniversary of the armistice would be commemorated with thanksgiving and prayer.

An Act was approved on May 13, 1938, which made November 11 in each year a legal holiday, known as Armistice Day. This day was initially intended to honor veterans of World War I. A few years later, World War II required the most significant mobilization of service members in the history of the United States, and the American forces were sent to fight in Korea. In 1954, the veteran’s service organizations asked Congress to change the word “Armistice” to “Veterans.” Congress made this change, and on June 1, 1954, November 11 became a day to pay tribute to all American veterans, where ever and whenever they had served.

Source: VA.org

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