I came across an unusual advertisement for a newly launched coffee called the BOMB, which has twice as much caffeine as the typical cup of joe. What caught my eye was that it is run by veterans who donate 22 percent of all sales during the month of November to help raise awareness and support for the 22 veterans that every day take their lives.
That advertisement reminded me of the 11th hour of the 11th day of the 11th month in 1918—the time that marked the end of hostilities of World War I, “the war to end all wars.”
Today, nearly one hundred years later, we know that was not to be. For this reason veterans’ well-being and safety are of the utmost importance. To honor and remember those who put their lives in jeopardy for the rest of us, the 11th day of the 11th month has been put aside and marked as Veterans Day.
Each year the Veterans Day National Ceremony held at Arlington National Cemetery commences precisely at 11:00 a.m. with the laying of a wreath at the Tomb of the Unknowns, unofficially known as Tomb of the Unknown Soldier.
Each year, too, some take time to reflect on the sacrifices soldiers have made. A few with unique perspectives have shared their thoughts with me.
