Veteran’s Day honors those who have served in the United States Armed Forces, and is a national holiday that has a deeper significance to Montgomery County’s veterans and students alike. Formerly known as “Armistice Day” in celebration of the end of World War I, Veteran’s Day has been held every November 11th since 1938.
Richard Montgomery media technician Mr. Eric Rodney served as an Intelligence Operations specialist for four years, and his work was highly confidential. “Veteran’s Day is a time to respect and honor those that try to protect the rights of the people that live in this country,” he said. Courage, humility, and respect are words that all veterans live by, and Mr. Rodney is living proof.
Citizens that put themselves at the risk of death in order to protect the country that they love are truly admirable. In sacrificing years out of their own lives to ensure that the rest of the general population can live peacefully and war-free, veterans display a great degree of selflessness, one unparalleled by most other occupations.
RM sophomore Simone Koning can attest to that. Her father, along with many other family members on her paternal side, have served in the U.S. army. “Veteran’s day has such a deep meaning to my family and me, because it is a day that honors all the hard work that they have done in order to protect our country from harm,” Koning said.
RM paraeducator Mr. Dennis Coleman served as a paratrooper, putting his life on the line many times. He regularly jumped from aircrafts in order to deliver medical aid to those who needed it. Mr. Coleman served in the U.S. navy from 1980-1984, during one of the most horrific terrorist acts committed against the U.S. in Lebanon. He witnessed a multitude of soldiers die a tragic death, blown up in a marine compound.
“[Veteran’s Day is for] honoring the servicemen who served this country, from all branches,” Coleman said. This holiday allows Coleman to take a great amount of pride in his former work, and he loves that there is one day in the year specifically tailored to recognizing what he and many other veterans have accomplished.
In evaluating the emotional responses across several generations in regard to Veteran’s Day, it becomes clear that this holiday is one that unites both the local and national communities. This holiday is of utmost importance, as it gives veterans the praise and acclamation they deserve for protecting our country. Thank you to all who have served.
Article by MoCo Student staff writer Robyn Fohouo of Richard Montgomery High School