Posted by Stacie Fredriksson

Veterans Day is a day for honoring and remembering all of those who have served in the military, both living and dead. Originally this day was called Armistice Day to recognize the end of World War I on November 11, 1918 at 11:00 a.m., which was expected to be the "war to end all wars." Despite the many heartbreaking wars that followed WWI, America continued to honor veterans every year and in 1952, President Eisenhower signed a bill proclaiming November 11 Veterans Day.

Each year on Veterans Day, the President (or his representative) lays a wreath at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier as part of an emotional ceremony at Arlington National Cemetery to honor America's war dead. Nationwide, communities honor Veterans Day with a variety of parades, activities, and ceremonies recognizing those in their communities who have served. One of the best ways to honor this day is by simply thanking aa veteran, whether it's someone you know, visiting a veterans hospital or home in your community, or sending a card. Thanking a veteran for his/her dedicated service to our nation is what this day is all about.

As we remember veterans today, let's also consider the families behind those veterans: moms, dads, spouses, siblings, and children who provide the critical support back home that allows our soldiers to do their jobs defending our nation.
JF&CS and Shoulder to Shoulder thanks all our JF&CS military veterans and their families who have supported their service.


Stacie FStacie Fredriksson is the Program Manager for JF&CS Shoulder to Shoulder, serving military families in the Greater Boston. She has an extensive military background, serving 14 years in the Air Force on active duty before transferring to the Air Force Reserves where she has served the last eight years. Having experienced the rewards and challenges of military life, she has a passion for serving military families. Stacie is married to Brian and together they have two amazing children and one silly dog who keep them both busy and focused on the importance of living each day to the fullest.