Veterans Day, observed annually on November 11th, is a federal and state (Ohio) holiday in the United States that honors military veterans who have served in the U.S. Armed Forces. This significant day originated from Armistice Day, which marked the end of World War I on November 11, 1918. In 1954, President Dwight D. Eisenhower officially changed the name to Veterans Day to recognize and honor all American veterans of all wars. Unlike Memorial Day, which honors those who died while in military service, Veterans Day pays tribute to all veterans, living or deceased, who served honorably during war or peacetime.
Mr. Horston, Ms. O'Neil and Mr. Harmison are some veterans serving at Horizon.
The history of Veterans Day is deeply rooted in the concept of honoring those who have sacrificed for their country. After World War I, many countries observed Armistice Day on November 11th. In the United States, it became a legal holiday in 1938. Following World War II and the Korean War, veterans service organizations urged Congress to change the name to Veterans Day to honor all veterans. This change was officially made in 1954, broadening the holiday's scope to include all veterans, not just those from World War I.
In Ohio, as in many states across the nation, Veterans Day holds special significance. According to Ohio Revised Code 5.23, a law ensuring that students and educators have the opportunity to participate in Veterans Day observances and reflect on the contributions of veterans. “the eleventh day of November, known as Veterans' day, shall be commemorated in the schools". Schools in Ohio can commemorate this day through various activities such as assemblies featuring veteran speakers, writing letters to active-duty military personnel, creating patriotic displays, or participating in local Veterans Day parades. These observances not only honor veterans but also educate students about the importance of service, sacrifice, and the role of the military in preserving freedom and democracy.
Schools in Ohio have numerous ways to commemorate Veterans Day, honoring veterans and educating students about their sacrifices and contributions. Here are some specific ideas that Ohio schools can implement:
Veteran Guest Speakers:
Invite local veterans to speak at school assemblies or in classrooms.
Organize panel discussions where veterans from different eras share their experiences.
Educational Programs:
Develop lesson plans focusing on the history of Veterans Day and military service.
Create projects where students research and present on different aspects of military history.
Community Service:
Organize visits to local VA hospitals or retirement homes.
Coordinate care package assembly for active-duty military personnel.
Art and Writing Projects:
Host essay contests on topics related to veterans and their service.
Create a mural or art display honoring local veterans.
Patriotic Ceremonies:
Conduct a flag-raising ceremony with proper flag etiquette.
Hold a moment of silence at 11:00 AM on November 11th.
Military Appreciation Events:
Organize a "Wall of Honor" displaying photos and information about veterans in the school community.
Host a breakfast or luncheon for local veterans and their families.
Performances:
Arrange for the school band or choir to perform patriotic songs.
Stage a play or reenactment of historical military events.
Physical Activities:
Organize a charity run/walk event with proceeds benefiting veteran organizations.
Conduct physical training exercises modeled after military fitness routines.
Technology Integration:
Facilitate video calls between students and active-duty military personnel.
Create digital storytelling projects about veterans' experiences.
Community Partnerships:
Collaborate with local veteran organizations for joint events.
Participate in or organize a local Veterans Day parade.
Memorial Garden:
Create or maintain a school garden dedicated to veterans.
Fundraising:
Organize fundraisers to support veteran-focused charities.
PLEASE THANK A VET TODAY !!!
