Dear Sisters and Brothers,
November 11 is the date every year that we recognize, celebrate and most of all thank our Veterans for their service to our country. President Dwight D. Eisenhower signed the bill proclaiming November 11 as Veterans Day in 1954, but the history of this great holiday goes back much further and is steeped in honor and sacrifice.
On November 11, 1921, an unknown American soldier from World War I was laid to rest at Arlington National Cemetery in what was then named the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier. This unidentified soldier would be joined years later by unidentified service members from World War II, the Korean War, and the Vietnam War and the tomb was renamed the Tomb of the Unknowns. England and France had performed similar ceremonies, commemorating the end of World War I on November 11, 1918. Originally known as “Armistice Day” the holiday’s name was changed to Veterans Day to honor all veterans. The bill which changed the name was proposed by U.S. Representative Edward Rees of Kansas and signed by President Eisenhower.
All these years later Veterans Day continues to stir many emotions, from the celebration and pride felt in local parades and events, to the somber and reflective laying of the presidential wreath at the Tomb of the Unknowns. The freedoms we enjoy today as Americans would not be possible without the sacrifices of the women and men who have dedicated their lives to the service of our country.
All of us at District Lodge 142 would like to extend a special thank you to our many members who are Veterans. We encourage you to visit our Veterans Service Committee page at atd142.org/veterans and take advantage of the many services and opportunities afforded to you by the IAMAW. We hope you enjoy your holiday. With best wishes we remain
Sincerely and fraternally,
John M. Coveny, Jr.
President-Directing General Chair
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