November 9 to November 15, 2008 – that’s next week, is National Veterans Awareness Week and November 11, 2008 is Veterans Day.

Back when we were little kids, most of us do not understand the depth of celebrating Veterans Day every year. The point of watching the ceremony in the Tomb of the Unknowns in Virginia may have been unclear to many of us.

However, in this time when recent wars have made our generation more aware of the sacrifices that our soldiers make to fight for our cause, Veterans Day becomes a much more momentous event. It becomes a day for our heroes. It is the day when we honor the people who fought the fight in behalf of us.

For the past years, we organize parades, speeches and programs across the nation during this day. But how did these all started? Let me share with you some bits of trivia about the Veterans Day.

1918 – Although the Treaty of Versailles, which officially put an end to World War I, was signed on June 28, 1919, there already was a temporary cessation of hostilities, then known as an armistice, which took effect on November 11, 1918 or to be more precise, on the 11th hour of the 11th day of the 11th month of that year.

1919 – The country observed the first anniversary of the end of the Great War on November 11 of this year, and this became known as “Armistice Day”.

1926 – Congress resolved to set November 11 of each year as Armistice Day, and to commemorate the day with prayers and activities that promote peace among nations.

1938 – November 11 became a legal holiday through the Act of 1938.

1954 – A legislation changing the name from “Armistice Day” to “Veterans Day” was signed by President Eisenhower in honor of all the soldiers not only in World War I, but in all American wars.

2008 – This is our best chance to show our love and respect for our heroes. Why don’t we make this year’s Veterans Day extra special by adding our personal touch? Join the activities and be part of the event!