Do You Wish Active Military Happy Veterans Day?
When Veterans Day arrives on November 11th, it’s common to see numerous messages of gratitude and celebration on social media, and in communities around the world. But, should active military personnel be included in these tributes? Is it really possible to truly honor the sacrifices and contributions of veterans if active duty military personnel are excluded?
What is Veterans Day?
Before diving into the debate, let’s take a step back and understand the purpose of Veterans Day. Established in 1919, the day is originally known as Armistice Day, marking the end of World War I. Over the years, it has evolved to honor all military personnel who have served and are still serving, including those who have lost their lives or were injured during active duty. So, in essence, Veterans Day is a day to acknowledge and celebrate the sacrifices and service of the military, past and present.
Active Military vs. Veterans: What’s the Difference?
When discussing Veterans Day, it’s essential to distinguish between active military personnel and veterans. Active military personnel are individuals currently serving in the armed forces, either full-time or part-time, with duties assigned by the military. They may be serving domestically or abroad, and their deployment can vary from short-term to extended periods. In contrast, veterans are individuals who have previously served in the military and have either left the service or retired. They may have completed their service in various ways, such as honorable discharge, medical discharge, or post-service transfer to the National Guard or Reserve.
Why Excluding Active Military is Not Ideal
Leaving active military personnel out of Veterans Day celebrations and tributes may have significant implications:
• Fosters Divide: When active duty personnel are not included in Veterans Day festivities, it creates a perceived divide between those serving now and those who have served in the past. This can lead to feelings of isolation, disconnection, and frustration among those who are currently serving.
• Overlooks Ongoing Sacrifices: By focusing primarily on veterans, we overlook the sacrifices made by active military personnel on a daily basis. Their service, too, demands dedication, discipline, and often puts them in harm’s way, just as it has for their predecessors.
• Less Appreciation: Ignoring active military personnel on Veterans Day may result in reduced public appreciation and recognition for their contributions, potentially diminishing their morale and motivation to serve.
Including Active Military in Veterans Day Celebrations
Including active military personnel in Veterans Day tributes can be done in several ways:
• Military Events and Activities: Hosting or participating in military-themed events, such as parades, ceremonies, and celebrations, can be a fantastic way to recognize the sacrifices of active duty personnel. These events can also foster camaraderie among those serving.
• Acknowledging Service: Acknowledging the service and sacrifices of active military personnel, either verbally or through gestures, such as award ceremonies or honorary mentions, demonstrates appreciation for their dedication.
• Social Media Tributes: Sharing social media posts or messages highlighting the contributions and sacrifices of active military personnel can help increase awareness and appreciation for their service.
A Proposal for a New Tradition: "National Military Service Recognition Day"
To avoid the exclusionary conundrum, a new tradition could be established: a separate National Military Service Recognition Day. This day could be held annually on the same day as Veterans Day, or on a separate date altogether. The recognition day would specifically focus on honoring and thanking both active military personnel and veterans for their service and sacrifices. This way, both groups would receive the recognition and appreciation they deserve, without overshadowing or marginalizing one over the other.
Table: Proposed "National Military Service Recognition Day" Celebrations
| Activity | Description | Recognition |
|---|---|---|
| Parades | Military-themed parades, showcasing equipment, vehicles, and personnel | Honor Guard, marching bands |
| Award Ceremonies | Presenting awards, medals, or commendations to active duty personnel | Public acknowledgment, photo opportunities |
| Social Media Tributes | Sharing posts and messages recognizing active military service | Online engagement, hashtag campaigns |
| Family Appreciation Events | Hosting family-friendly events, games, and activities | Gift certificates, small tokens of appreciation |
Conclusion
On Veterans Day, we often focus on honoring those who have served in the past. While this is important, it’s equally vital to acknowledge and appreciate the ongoing service and sacrifices of active military personnel. Excluding active duty personnel from Veterans Day celebrations may have unintended consequences, such as fostering divide, overlooking ongoing sacrifices, and diminishing public appreciation. By recognizing the service of both active military personnel and veterans, we can foster a deeper appreciation for the sacrifices made by those who serve and continue to serve our country. Together, let us strive for a more inclusive and grateful recognition of our nation’s military service members, both past and present.
