News Release: 11/8/2024

As Veterans Day approaches on November 11, 2024, it is a time to pause and honor the history and sacrifices that this day represents.
Originally established to commemorate the end of World War I, Veterans Day marks the signing of the armistice on November 11, 1918. Though the Treaty of Versailles formally ended the war on June 28, 1919. President Woodrow Wilson was the first to recognize November 11 as Armistice Day. He expressed the day’s meaning with these words:
“To us in America, the reflections of Armistice Day will be filled with solemn pride in the heroism of those who died in our 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 for peace and justice in the council of the nations.”
In 1938, a law officially expanded the day’s recognition to honor American veterans of all wars. By 1954, Congress changed the name from Armistice Day to Veterans Day, and in 1975, it became a national holiday.
Since then, generations of brave men and women have continued to answer the call, serving both at home and overseas to protect our united values and freedoms. Their sacrifices are honored in our nation’s history, yet no history book can capture the full measure of their bravery. Marked and unmarked graves, both on our soil and abroad, stand as solemn testimonies to lives sacrificed and futures lost.
We pledge each year to never forget. As you drive through the Hamlet of Bethpage, and other communities, take note of the banners honoring our local veterans who have served to protect our freedoms. I ask you to make a commitment—not only on Veterans Day or on Memorial Day, but throughout the year—to thank a veteran whenever you can. Their service and sacrifice represent the very best of us.
I am a believer in that random acts of kindness and gratitude contain dividends that cannot be measured by a tape measure or measuring cup.
With deepest respect and gratitude,
Joe Minogue Commander
Archie McCord Post #86 – American Legion
10 Washington St
PO BOX 561
Bethpage, NY 11714-0561