By JIM VINES
Many people confuse Memorial Day and Veterans Day. Both holidays were established to recognize and honor the men and women who have worn the uniform of the United States Armed Forces. Memorial Day, which is observed on the last Monday in May, is set aside as a day for remembering and honoring military personnel who died in the service of their country, particularly those who died in battle or as a result of wounds sustained in battle.
While those who died are also remembered on Veterans Day, which is observed on Nov. 11, Veterans Day is intended to thank and honor all those who served honorably in the military, in wartime or peacetime. In fact, Veterans Day is largely intended to thank living veterans for their service, to acknowledge that their contributions to our national security is appreciated and to underscore the fact that all those who served, not only those who died, have sacrificed and done their duty.
On Veterans Day let’s pay tribute to the millions of Americans who throughout our great history placed their lives on the line for liberty. In the years since our nation was born, veterans have given selfless service to our country in time of war and peace. At every critical stage in America’s history, these men and women stepped up when they were needed and their efforts to preserve the freedom we know have made an impact at home and abroad.
For those who decided to make a commitment that countless other Americans who wear a military uniform have done, regardless of the reason, November 11th is their day of recognition. Their service and sacrifice give veterans service organizations, such as AmVets, a reason for being. It is because our brothers and sisters in arms have so readily and selflessly given so much, that we in turn are obligated to stand ready to support them when they need us.
I am extremely proud to have led the AmVets organization over the past three years, trying to meet the needs of all veterans, past and present, as well as their families and survivors in our community. We are fortunate to have many organizations such as the VFW, DAV, American Legion and their auxiliaries, as well as veterans representative commissions that take up the cause to ensure our veterans are taken care of and given information in health care, education and benefits.
There is more to be done and I encourage everyone to get involved and join a service organization or volunteer. Also, the hospitals are full of thousands of veterans that may never leave their rooms that would enjoy a smile and conversation. Demonstrate your support for our veterans by giving a few hours of your time when available. Come to Ram Stadium in Mineral Wells on Monday for Veterans Day Recognition.
Speak to you again next week.
Jim Vines is commander of AmVets Post 133 in Mineral Wells.
Veterans Corner
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The differences in Veterans Day, Memorial Day
- Veterans Corner
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Veterans' Corner - June 16, 2013
The Department of Veterans Affairs announced June 13 it has met the goal to hire 1600 new mental health professionals outlined in President Obama’s August 31, 2012 Executive Order to improve access to mental health services for veterans, service members, and military families.
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Veterans' Corner
Recently while attending ceremonies where the U.S. Flag was displayed, I noticed some confusion among veterans dressed in civilian clothes regarding proper etiquette saluting the U.S. Flag.
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Veteran's Corner
Last week I received an email from a veteran in California, seeking assistance in replacing his dog that had to be put down after attacking a small child.
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Veterans' Corner
An unfair fight for job seeking veterans has become increasingly evident on the jobs front.
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Veterans Corner
A new hotline has been developed and launched by the Department of Veterans Affairs specifically for women veterans.
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Veterans' Corner
Department of Veterans Affairs doctors are continuing to prescribe tranquilizers such as Valium and Xanax to veterans diagnosed with post traumatic stress disorder, despite VA guidelines advising against their use for the condition.
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Veterans' Corner
The Veterans Administration has streamlined its efforts to help homelessness by concentrating on veterans in four areas. Employment, safe housing, health care and mental heath care are now more defined to aid veterans quicker.
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Veteran's Corner
Suicide remains a problem without a clear solution in both the active-duty and veterans' communities. After another rise in military suicides last year, the armed services last week outlined to Congress their efforts to reverse the trend and evaluate their prevention programs.
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Veterans' Corner
Having recently attended a veterans funeral service, I overheard a disagreement between some attendees regarding the reciting of meanings during each fold of the flag. The meaning of the folding of the American flag is not without importance, however, meanings of each fold are not official and not required.
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Veterans' Corner
Despite assurances that veterans benefits and services will be exempt from the budget cuts effective March 1, veterans and their families will share the suffering along with military counterparts.
- More Veterans Corner Headlines
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Veterans' Corner - June 16, 2013
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