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In 1918, on the 11th hour of the 11th day of the 11th month, an armistice, or temporary cessation of hostilities, was declared between the Allied nations and Germany in World War I, then known as “the Great War.”

Commemorated in many countries as Armistice Day the following year, November 11th became a federal holiday in the United States in 1938. In the aftermath of World War II and the Korean War, Armistice Day became known as Veterans Day.

This week, across the United States from ‘sea to shining sea,’ our Ambleside School communities are taking a pause to reflect and honor our country’s veterans as we do each year. There are moving stories told, memories of adventure and narrow escapes, of valiant rescues, and tears of great loss for comrades and friends. We sing, we listen, we recite, we ‘post the colors,’ we admire. We are greatly blessed.

The veterans are so grateful to be honored and cherished … Here’s a note from one of them:

“Thank you for inviting me today to your School’s “Honor the Veterans celebration.” It was the first time for me to be honored by children, their families, teachers, fellow veterans, and those who are still serving. Widows of WWII vets, and Vietnam vets were there, too. It was an honor to be in their midst.

The LT General had us all ears as he shared with us the challenges that he had during WWII. His memory of the battles that he was engaged in, the dates and time, are very vivid in his mind. He lost a lot of friends … He had a lot of close calls, but somehow, he managed. He started to believe he was invincible … He said, ‘there are no atheists in foxholes.’ The kids were equally great. All 150+ plus of them lined up to shake hands with us and personally thanked us for our service. You’re all most welcome … Just know that I’d do it again if asked to serve … For your freedom. Yours and mine. God bless America and God bless you. Grandpa Ed, LCDR MSC, USN (Ret)”

Pictured is an Ambleside School of Colorado student giving a poppy to a Veteran.