To us in America, the reflections of Armistice Day will be filled with solemn pride in the heroism of those who died in the country’s service and with gratitude for the victory, both because of the thing from which it has freed us and because of the opportunity it has given America to show her sympathy with peace and justice in the councils of the nations.
-Woodrow Wilson, Armistice Day proclamation, 11 November, 1919
a day to be dedicated to the cause of world peace and to be thereafter celebrated and known as ‘Armistice Day’.
52 Stat. 351; 5 U.S. Code, Sec. 87a, 13 May, 1938
Today is a day to remember the heavy toll that war in all of its various forms takes, both on the armed forces and the hardships endured by civilian populations. It is a day that we reflect on the sobering costs of global military conflict and renew our dedication to peacefully resolve differences. We honor our veterans best by not being spendthrifts with their courage, honor, and dedication to their country. It is not a celebration of triumph insofar as that celebration strays from gratitude for the victory. It is a day to mourn and remember.
To those who have fallen in battle, I honor your dedication to a civil society and am sorry we were not able to resolve our differences peacefully. To my brothers and sisters in arms, thank you. To the civilian population that supported myself and others, thank you again.
In Flanders fields the poppies blow
Between the crosses, row on row,
That mark our place; and in the sky
The larks, still bravely singing, fly
Scarce heard amid the guns below.We are the Dead. Short days ago
We lived, felt dawn, saw sunset glow,
Loved and were loved, and now we lie,
In Flanders fields.Take up our quarrel with the foe:
To you from failing hands we throw
The torch; be yours to hold it high.
If ye break faith with us who die
We shall not sleep, though poppies grow
In Flanders fields.
