Tag: Veterans Day

Happy Veterans Day 2024!

Celebrating the Contributions of All, with Special Recognition of Women in the Armed Forces

On Veterans Day 2024, we unite as a nation to recognize the courage, sacrifice, and dedication of all who have served and continue to serve in the United States Armed Forces. This day provides an opportunity to express gratitude to veterans and active duty members for their invaluable contributions to our nation’s safety and liberty. As we honor the achievements and resilience of all service members, we also take time to celebrate the unique contributions of women in the military—an essential and often under-recognized part of the armed forces.

The History of Veterans Day: A Day of Remembrance

Veterans Day has its roots in Armistice Day, which marked the end of World War I on November 11, 1918. Originally dedicated to honoring World War I veterans, the day evolved in 1954, when President Dwight D. Eisenhower officially renamed it “Veterans Day” to recognize veterans from all conflicts. Today, Veterans Day is observed every November 11, serving as a reminder of the bravery and commitment of those who defend our freedom.

The U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) notes that Veterans Day differs from Memorial Day in that it honors both living and deceased veterans, celebrating all individuals who have served honorably in the military, whether during times of war or peace (https://www.va.gov/opa/vetsday/).

Women in the U.S. Armed Forces: A Legacy of Service and Sacrifice

Women have served in the U.S. military since the nation’s founding, though often in unofficial or supporting roles. During the American Revolutionary War, women worked as nurses, spies, and supporters. It was not until World War I that women began enlisting in formal roles within the armed forces. In 1917, the U.S. Navy enlisted women as Yeoman (F) — “yeomanettes” — marking the first time women officially served in a non-nursing military role (https://www.history.navy.mil).

Today, women are an integral part of the U.S. military, with more than 200,000 women serving on active duty, according to recent Department of Defense statistics. They make up roughly 17% of active duty personnel and have served in every combat zone since 9/11. Women now command at every level, breaking barriers across the Army, Navy, Air Force, Marine Corps, and Space Force (https://www.defense.gov).

Celebrating Milestones: Women’s Leadership in Combat and Beyond

The role of women in the military has expanded significantly in recent decades. In 2013, the Department of Defense lifted the ban on women in combat roles, allowing them to serve in positions like infantry and special operations that had previously been restricted. Since then, women have proven themselves in these challenging roles, leading to increased opportunities for advancement and leadership within the military structure.

The significance of these changes is evident in the stories of trailblazing women like General Lori Robinson, the first female combatant commander of a major Unified Combatant Command, and General Ann E. Dunwoody, who became the first woman in U.S. military history to achieve a four-star rank. Their achievements underscore the dedication and resilience of women in uniform and inspire future generations of female service members (https://www.army.mil/womenhistory/).

Supporting Veterans and Active Duty Service Members: A National Responsibility

On Veterans Day 2024, the nation recognizes the responsibility to support veterans and active duty personnel as they transition to civilian life. Many face challenges, including securing employment, accessing healthcare, and integrating back into their communities. Organizations like the Veterans Affairs Department, the American Legion, and Veterans of Foreign Wars work tirelessly to ensure veterans receive the care and support they deserve.

Veterans’ mental health is also a key area of focus, with studies showing that veterans are disproportionately affected by mental health issues. According to the National Alliance on Mental Illness, veterans face unique stressors, and efforts to provide comprehensive mental health support continue to be critical (https://www.nami.org).

Honoring Their Legacy and Embracing the Future

This Veterans Day 2024, we celebrate the accomplishments and sacrifices of all who have served and also the progress made in fostering inclusivity within the armed forces. As more women take on leadership roles and break barriers, they enrich the military’s diversity, bringing new perspectives and strengths to the defense of our country.

Whether by attending parades, sharing stories of service, or reaching out to thank a veteran, Americans can find ways to honor veterans’ legacies and contributions. Veterans Day 2024 reminds us of our enduring debt of gratitude, and our commitment to uphold the principles they fought to protect.

For more information on supporting veterans, consider visiting resources like the Department of Veterans Affairs at https://www.va.gov or the Veterans of Foreign Wars at https://www.vfw.org. These organizations provide essential support to veterans and work to preserve the stories and contributions of those who have served. Another great Veterans organization is the American Legion.

Founded by an Act of Congress after World War I, The American Legion fiercely advocates for the unique needs of every generation of veterans, service members, and their families who pledge to protect our nation. Today, we are committed to destigmatizing mental health support, offering peer-to-peer resources, and empowering everyone to Be The One in the fight to end veteran suicide.

In unity and respect, let us honor all veterans and active duty service members this Veterans Day 2024, recognizing the resilience and courage that define their service.

Happy Veterans Day 2024!

Regards,

Keith Klein
Organizer, Wisconsin Business Owners
Founder & CEO, OnYourMark, LLC
Chief Blogger, Bloggey.com
Dealer, MainStreetOil.com

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This Veterans Day 2024 post was generated by Mark Mullarky and me with an AI assist.  Many thanks to Mark, CEO of Great Lakes Tech Services, for going out of his way to honor Vets year-round.  Please feel free to copy and share this post with attribution, including a link back to the original site it was posted on, a joint venture of Mark and me, Wisconsin Information Services eXchange.

Thank you for your service. Veterans Day, observed annually on November 11, holds a special place in the heart of our nation. It’s a day dedicated to honoring the brave men and women who have served in the United States Armed Forces. These individuals have made significant sacrifices to protect the freedoms and values that we cherish as a nation. As we commemorate Veterans Day, it’s essential to reflect on the importance of this day and the ways we can show our appreciation to veterans.

SAN ANGELO, Texas — Airman 1st Class Jessica Keith, 17th Training Wing, renders a salute as the United States Flag goes by during the San Angelo Veterans Day Parade. Thank you for your service!

The phrase “thank a veteran” embodies the spirit of Veterans Day. It’s a simple yet powerful act of gratitude that can mean a great deal to those who have served. Whether it’s a word of thanks, a wave, or a thumbs up, these small gestures can have a big impact. If you encounter a veteran, perhaps identifiable by a cap or other insignia indicating their service, taking a moment to acknowledge their contribution is a meaningful way to honor their service.

Thank you for your service!  Please, be well!

However, Veterans Day is not just about gratitude. It’s also a time to raise awareness about the challenges many veterans face after their service, particularly concerning mental health. The rate of suicide and mental illness among veterans is alarmingly high. According to a report by the Department of Veterans Affairs, the risk of suicide among U.S. veterans is significantly higher compared to the non-veteran population. This statistic is a sobering reminder of the mental health struggles that many veterans endure.

It’s crucial, therefore, that our support for veterans extends beyond mere words of thanks.

Both of these phone numbers were confirmed on November 10, 2023, and reported to us to be staffed 24/7. Also, one operator suggested dialing 988 for crisis help. To all Vets: Thank you for your service! Please, take good care of yourself.

Active engagement in their well-being is paramount. If you know a veteran, Veterans Day is a perfect opportunity to check in with them. A simple phone call, message, or visit can go a long way in showing them they are not alone and that their service and sacrifices are not forgotten.

Supporting veterans also means advocating for better mental health services and resources. Encouraging public policies and programs that provide comprehensive mental health care and support for veterans is essential. This includes access to counseling, therapy, and medical services tailored to the unique challenges that veterans face.

In conclusion, Veterans Day is a day of honor, reflection, and action. It’s a day to express our gratitude to those who have served and to remember the sacrifices they – and their families – have made. But it’s also a day to acknowledge the ongoing struggles many veterans face and to commit to supporting them in any way we can. By taking the time to thank a veteran and by being mindful of their mental health needs, we can show our true appreciation for their service and contribute to their well-being.

References:

• Department of Veterans Affairs: https://www.va.gov
• Mental Health America: https://www.mhanational.org
• National Alliance on Mental Illness: https://www.nami.org

Thanks to our friend and vendor, Mark Mullarky of Great Lakes Tech Services, LLC for the original idea of recognizing Veterans several times each year, and sharing the recognition.

We share his sentiments:  Happy Veterans Day!  Thank you for your service!

Regards,

Keith Klein
Organizer, Wisconsin Business Owners
Founder & CEO, OnYourMark, LLC

We welcome your comments, questions and suggestions.  Please contact us with questions.  Best to call, email or visit our site for the best response.  We do invite you to engage with us on social media (just not for immediate needs).

As always, if you like, you will find us on the following social media sites, among many others:

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LinkedIn
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This post was generated by Mark Mullarky and me with an AI assist.  Please feel free to share it with a link back to the original here: https://www.wisx.com/happy-veterans-day-2023-thank-you-for-your-service/  Images courtesy of Wikimedia.

Veterans Day 2022 – and every year – falls on November 11th. This is the day when you should absolutely thank a veteran. Memorial Day is to remember those who died serving. Veterans Day is for thanking those who are still with us.

This year our son, Sean “Sarge”, is a civilian. He and many like him, think they have done nothing noteworthy or deserving of recognition. I contend that the Armed Forces are huge machines, requiring large numbers of support personnel to be effective. Every cog in the machine serves a necessary function. Some are worthy of special honors. All are deserving of our recognition and worthy of our gratitude.

Milwaukee’s Veterans Day 2022 parade is Saturday the 5th at 11:00 AM.  My wife, Anne, and I went in 2018 and the weather was awful. Here’s a photo with snow on the grass. Attendance was sparse, which made me sad. We were thanked by MANY vets as they passed by. They were so appreciative of the few people who showed up.

This year looks like it will be windy and rainy, with temps in the upper fifties. The parade will go on, with some older participants riding in vehicles. Others will march through the rain and wind (which probably brings back memories). If you’re able, please dress for the weather and show up to thank our vets. They deserve it.

Support the Veterans Day 2022 Parade

Support for the Wisconsin Veterans Day 2022 Celebration comes from the generous support of our supporters and sponsors. All proceeds from the Wisconsin Veterans Day Parade cover costs associated with the parade planning, promotion, and execution, and remaining proceeds are donated to the Wisconsin Veterans Community Foundation, a 501(c)(3) charity dedicated to supporting service providers and community organizations addressing critical needs of Wisconsin veterans, service members, and their families. Sponsorship inquiries can be directed to .

Details for the Wisconsin Veterans Day 2022 parade are here at https://wiveteransday.org/wivetsparade

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Thanks to our friend and vendor, Mark Mullarky of Great Lakes Tech Services, LLC for posting this originally, and sharing it with us – to share with you.

We share his sentiments:  Happy Veterans Day!  Thank you for your service!

Regards,

Keith Klein
Organizer, Wisconsin Business Owners
Founder & CEO, OnYourMark, LLC

We welcome your comments, questions and suggestions.  Please contact us with questions.  Best to call, email or visit our site for the best response.  We do invite you to engage with us on social media (just not for immediate needs).  As always, if you like, you will find us on the following social media sites, among many others:
Facebook
LinkedIn
Twitter