Definitions of hero: A man distinguished by exceptional courage and nobility and strength. 

When you hear the word "Hero" most everyone can think of someone they would describe using that term. Some people use it more freely. For example, when you get your best friend her favorite cup of coffee, she might call you her "Hero." And there are others who use the term "Hero" to describe their mother, father or person they most admire. But tomorrow we are reminded of the hundreds of men and women who had exceptional courage and nobility and strength to fight for our country....America's Heroes. November 11th is the day that we ensure veterans know that we deeply appreciate the sacrifices they have made in their lives to keep our country free.

The History Behind Veterans Day

In 1947, Raymond Weeks, of Birmingham Ala., organized a "Veterans Day" parade on November 11th to honor all of America's veterans for their loyal and dedicated service. Shortly thereafter, Congressman Edward H. Rees (Kansas) introduced legislation to change the name of Armistice Day to Veterans Day in order to honor all veterans who have served the United States in all wars.

In 1954, President Eisenhower signed a bill proclaiming November 11 as Veterans Day, and called upon Americans everywhere to rededicate themselves to the cause of peace. He issued a Presidential Order directing the head of the Veterans Administration (now called the Department of Veterans Affairs), to form a Veterans Day National Committee to organize and oversee the national observance of Veterans Day.

At exactly 11 a.m., each November 11th, a color guard, made up of members from each of the military branches, renders honors to America's war dead during a heart-moving ceremony at the Tomb of the Unknowns in Arlington National Cemetery.

The President or his representative places a wreath at the Tomb and a bugler sounds Taps. The balance of the ceremony, including a "Parade of Flags" by numerous veterans service organizations, takes place inside the Memorial Amphitheater, adjacent to the Tomb.

So let's remember to express our gratitude to our veterans for serving this country and protecting our lives over the years. Most of our Veterans are seniors who have not been at war for some time. This might be a good time to remind them of how special their service was to our country. If you have a family member or a friend that is a Veteran and a Hero, please share your story with us.