While World War I officially ended when the Treaty of Versailles was signed on June 28, 1919, it was formally ended at the 11th hour of the 11th day of the 11th month in 1918, when the Armistice with Germany took effect. The U.S. holiday was renamed Veterans Day in 1954.
A very small percentage of the American populace currently serve in the armed forces. I’ve seen percentages anywhere from .04% -- 1%.
According to 2016 data from the Department of Veterans Affairs, there were approximately 20.4 million U.S. veterans, less than 10% of the total U.S. adult population.
Since Veterans Day falls on a Sunday this year, some government offices, schools, and other businesses are closed either Friday or Monday.
On November 11th, let's acknowledge and express gratitude for all the men and women who have served or are serving our nation in the armed forces. We are the beneficiaries of liberty and freedom only because others were and are willing to sacrifice. Many service members spend vast amounts of time away from family and friends, work long hours under stressful conditions, and go in harm’s way. Their service has preserved our union and allows us to pursue our plans and dreams. Take some time today and thank them.
The Dates the US Military Organizations Were Founded
US ARMY (USA) June 14, 1775
US NAVY (USN) October 13, 1775
US MARINES (USMC) November 10, 1775
US COAST GUARD (USCG) August 4, 1790
WOMEN'S ARMY AUXILIARY CORP (WAAC) May 15, 1942
WOMEN IN NAVY (WAVES) July 30, 1942
WOMEN IN COAST GUARD (SPARS) November 23, 1942
WOMEN MARINES February 13, 1943
WOMEN'S ARMY CORP (WAC) July 1, 1943
US AIR FORCE (USAF) September 18, 1947
WOMEN IN USAF (WAF) June 12, 1948
Department of Defense founded September 18, 1947
Army National Guard! 13 December 1636!
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ReplyDeleteWe were still part of Britain then.
DeleteBut a big Huzzah for The national Guard, too!!!
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