DEAR EDITOR:

Veterans Day is Wednesday. Its inception began when fighting ceased on the eleventh hour of Nov. 11, 1918, of World War I, known as the “Great War,” and regaled as the war to end all wars.

Armistice Day was declared by President Woodrow Wilson on Nov. 11, 1919. He stated, “… Armistice Day will be filled with solemn pride in the heroism of those who died in the country’s service and with gratitude…” That same year, a group of veterans formed an organization of veterans, for veterans, The American Legion.

America has seen many challenges of war since 1918. Defeating the Nazis and Japanese in World War II, sending troops to protect democracy in Korea, Vietnam and throughout the world. They have also been across the globe fighting terrorism to give a voice to the voiceless and persecuted and keeping our shores safe. Our brave men and women, along with their families, have stationed both within and outside the American borders, serving heroically and helping others, often giving the ultimate sacrifice. Please continue to encourage our government to return to these sites to bring back the bodies of those lost in combat to their home and final resting place.

The year 2020 and the pandemic have brought challenges to our country not seen for over 100 years. In Ohio ,we can be thankful for the work being done by Ohio Army National Guard throughout the state. The Army National Guard has stepped up to work in food distribution centers, such as Second Harvest, to pack foods in the warehouse and then continue to work for hours filling trunks with food supplies for those in need. The Ohio Army National Guard also has spent countless hours to work in COVID-19 drive-up testing sites and going into nursing homes for testing. The dedication demonstrated by the Ohio National Guard to help in this crisis, at risk to their own health, makes the men and women true heroes.

On this Veterans Day, please honor these sacrifices by extending your heart and and thanking a veteran and their family for all their efforts to keep us all safe. Freedom is a full-time job, and our service members never get a day off, even on Veterans Day.

To all our veterans, please join me to say, “Thank you for your service; you are so appreciated.”

KAREN SHESKO

American Legion

Auxiliary 737

Lake Milton