Superintendent’s Corner – November 10, 2022
The history of Veterans Day in honor of all veterans
“For the veteran, thank you for bravely doing what you’re called to do so we can safely do what we’re free to do” - Unknown
Dear RSU 67 staff, students, families, and community members,
During World War I, young men from Maine and across the nation courageously fought on battlefields throughout Europe, more than 3,000 miles from home. The first world war also known as “the war to end all wars” officially ended on June 28, 1919, with the signing of the Treaty of Versailles. However, fighting had ceased several months earlier when Allied forces agreed to an armistice with Germany, effective on the 11th hour, of the 11th day, of the 11th month. For this reason, many regard November 11, 1918, as the end of World War I.
In 1919, President Woodrow Wilson proclaimed November 11 as Armistice Day with the following: “To us in America, the reflections of Armistice Day will be filled with solemn pride in the heroism of those who died in the country’s service and with gratitude for the victory, both because of the thing from which it has freed us and because of the opportunity it has given America to show her sympathy with peace and justice in the councils of the nations.” – Woodrow Wilson. Armistice Day was officially recognized by Congress in 1926 and Armistice Day became a national holiday in 1938.
The first celebration using the term “Veterans Day” occurred in Birmingham, Alabama on November 11, 1947. Raymond Weeks, a veteran of World War II, organized a “National Veterans Day” which honored all veterans with parades and festivities. In 1954, Congress passed the bill, later signed by President Eisenhower, proclaiming November 11 as Veterans Day. In 1982, President Reagan presented Weeks with the Presidential Citizens Medal.
Like so many of you, my family has a rich history of service in various branches of the military. My grandfather, from a town just north of here, was one of those young men in the trenches of Europe during World War I. My great-uncles were at Pearl Harbor, landed on the beaches of Normandy on D-Day, and fought in Europe during World War II. My father served during Korea, and now my son carries on the tradition of service in the United States Navy. I am immensely proud and appreciative of their service, and grateful for the lessons they have taught me.
Tomorrow, we honor all the brave men and women who have served, or are currently serving, in the United States military. We especially want to recognize those veterans who are also part of the RSU 67 community. It is an honor to thank all of you for your service, for your dedication, and for your sacrifice. Thank you.
“As we express our gratitude, we must never forget that the highest appreciation is not to utter words but to live by them.” John F. Kennedy
Until next time………….