Ninety years ago, at the eleventh hour, of the eleventh day, of the eleventh month (1918), the Treaty of Versailles was signed by our allies and Germany, ending the ravages of World War I.  Armistice Day (Remembrance Day for some of our allies) became a day to honor the soldiers that fought and died in the war that was supposed to end all wars.

In 1938, Pres. Roosevelt and Congress authorized an official holiday to commemorate fallen warriors who had fought for freedom.  Following W.W. II and the Korean conflict, Pres. Eisenhower (1954) renamed Armistice Day.  It became Veterans Day, in order to honor veterans of all the wars in our history.  Veterans Day is a special day to reflect on, and respect all living and dead veterans that have honorably served in the armed forces.

It is a blessing to pause and consider the great sacrifices of past and current military veterans who have understood that freedom is precious.  Vast numbers of ordinary individuals have been willing to put their lives on the line to preserve democracy and liberty.  Without their devotion to freedom, we wouldn't be able to celebrate all the historic and religious holidays that we cherish.  We wouldn't have the right to criticize our leaders as we try to forge a more perfect Union.

If not for the heroic service of our veterans, the American Dream and the great American Experiment would erode and fall by the wayside.  That's why it is so important to remember the selfless service of our veterans, and how lucky we are to live in a nation that is protected through their sacrifices.  Fighting for freedom wasn't a one time event.  Liberty must always be safeguarded against terrorists and tyrants that strive to undermine freedom, peace, and security.

Let us give thanks to veterans who fight for the noble cause of universal freedom, as well as provide reconstruction efforts and disaster relief around the globe.  As often as we can, let us pay tribute to the principles they uphold.  We can pray for the safety and success of our troops who are in harms way in Afghanistan and Iraq.  May the Lord protect them in their duties, and eventually bring them home healthy and sound.