Salute to veterans

Today's date, Nov. 11, holds a special place in the hearts of veterans around the world, but no more so than in the United States, where the nation is observing Veterans Day.

At first, Veterans Day was set aside to remember the armistice, signed on Nov. 11, 1918, that ended World War I. The holiday initially was called Armistice Day. In 1954, Congress changed the name to Veterans Day to honor all veterans who have served in the military.

An attempt to change the observance of Veterans Day to the fourth Monday in October only lasted from 1971 to 1977. To many Americans, especially families of World War I veterans, the 11th hour of the 11th day of the 11th month in 1918 was too sacred to allow federal holiday tampering.

Today we salute those who have served their nation so valiantly, especially those who gave their lives. We can only express our deep gratitude.