Veterans’ Day, as defined by Oxford Languages, is a public holiday held on the anniversary of the end of World War I, November 11, to honor U.S. Veterans and victims of all wars. It serves as a day of admiration for the living, and a day of respect for those who have fallen both during and after war. St. Louis High School, in memory for this holiday, changed the sports wall in the front entrance hall to a veterans’ display.
In honor of Veterans’ Day, the woodshop produced gifts for veterans. “I’ve been working on the gifts for about three and a half weeks now. The gifts are plaques that have the U.S. and a couple of our unique designs on them. These plaques really have their own character to them. They are handcrafted and are different in their own good ways,” said junior Ryder Siefka. “These gifts show the lost appreciation that the younger generation doesn’t show anymore, and I really think these veterans are going to love them. These gifts are going to any veteran that wants one, and will be delivered to the VFW via Mr Maxwell,” he added.
“Veteran’s day has evolved into a nice way to honor those who made the choice to serve. In the last 10 years, establishments have gone out of their way to do nice things for Vets,” says teacher and veteran Kevin Kuhn. “I think it would be a nice gesture to have the day off if you are a veteran. As I get older, I appreciate this day more. I enjoy seeing the older vets take so much pride in their service. I don’t at all think there is a lower appreciation. When I was younger, I don’t ever remember anyone acknowledging Veterans Day,” he added.
Before Veterans Day, the day was celebrated as Armistice Day. It was celebrated for the armistice signed between the Allies of WWI and Germany at Compiegne, France. Veteran’s Day is often compared to Memorial Day, which predates WWI. They both remember those who have fallen, and forever will serve as a reminder of the soldiers who were brave enough to fight for the U.S.
