Monday is an important day for all Americans. It is a day set aside to take time to thank all of those who serve, or have served in our armed forces. It is possibly the most important holiday for our nation.

Sadly, many Americans will see this Monday as a day off school or a time to relax. But it’s not just a day to blow off and relax on the couch. It’s a day we take time to honor those who were brave enough to join our armed forces. They answered the call when the nation needed them.

Originally known as Armistice Day, Veterans Day was established to celebrate the end of World War I. It was declared a national holiday by Woodrow Wilson to commemorate the peace made after Germany signed an armistice agreement on November 11, 1918.

After World War II, president and former general Dwight Eisenhower changed the holiday to Veterans Day in honor of all Americans who served.

We must stop and think of the daunting tasks have been laid before our military personnel and how they have overcome obstacles large and small over the past 243 years.

From defending small plots of land from the British in the American Revolution, to the narrow trenches of World War I, and the beaches of Normandy in World War II, to the sands of Iraq and the mountains of Afghanistan. Throughout the past two and a half centuries American Marines, Soldiers, Sailors, and Airmen have been sent to foreign countries to defend peace and freedom.

Through peace and war these brave Americans have given their time and their lives to secure a free and safe nation.

With our nation so divided over politics, we can’t look over this important holiday. It’s a holiday everyone can come together to honor and thank those who have served in our armed forces. This holiday affects all Americans, regardless of where we come from or who we voted for.

Also, many adults think that teenagers are ungrateful and unaware. But this is not true. We are all gracious and thankful for those who risked their lives for freedom and liberty. Many recent young enlistees actually have been inspired by someone who was in the service which makes them want to follow in their footsteps. Many service men and women are role models for young people.

I’m not saying don’t enjoy the day off or put off all the plans you made, but please devote a little time to thank a veteran or go to a service or parade. Or just think about how different our nation would be if no one stood up against tyranny to defend liberty and justice.