November 11, 1918 11:00AM -When fighting stopped between the Allied nations and Germany during World War I, just seven months prior to the signing of the Treaty of Versailles to end “The Great War”.
A year later on November 1919, President Woodrow Wilson made November 11 Armistice Day by stating,
“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..” – President Woodrow Wilson
In 1978, Armistice Day was renamed Veterans Day by President Gerald R. Ford.
Everyone in the United States knows a US soldier, whether served in World War I, II, Korean, Vietnam, Desert Storm, Afghanistan, Iraq, or others. These men and women serve and fight to protect our rights and freedom as Americans. 1 day isn’t long enough to thank them for what they do for this country. Thank you soldiers for everything you do for us!
Like President Wilson original idea for Armistice Day to have parades, public meetings, and businesses closing at 11:00AM, we have continued these traditions.
November 8 – 9AM – Veterans Parade – Millington, TN
November 8 – 10AM – Veterans Appreciation & “Thank the Veterans” Quilt Project – Collierville, TN
November 11 – 10AM – Veterans Day Parade – Memphis, TN
November 11 – 2PM – Veterans Day Program – Veterans Museum – Halls, TN
Also Tennessee State Parks Offer a Free one night of camping or complimentary round of golf (with appropriate identification) to all Veterans on November 11.