4 minute read
Happy Veterans Day!
Our Community Written by Holly Stupak
Veterans give us many gifts including safety, security and freedom. So how can we thank the members of our military, both past and present? Veterans Day is right around the corner, so let’s honor these service members by acknowledging the sacrifices they make and by finding ways to celebrate them.
In order to honor American veterans of all wars properly, it is important to know the history of the holiday. Each year, Veterans Day is observed on November 11th, regardless of the day of the week. Why November 11th? It’s the day that signifies the 11th hour of the 11th day of the 11th month of 1918, marking the end of World War I.
Delaware County Veterans Memorial
Originally known as Armistice Day, Congress passed legislation in 1938 to officially dedicate November 11th to the cause of world peace. In 1954, veterans and service organizations urged Congress to change the word “Armistice” to “Veterans.” The legislation was approved in June of that year, and November 11th became the official holiday to honor our American veterans of any war. Then in 1968, due to the Uniforms Holiday Bill, Veterans Day was moved to the fourth Monday in October, ensuring a three-day weekend for federal holidays. However some states did not agree with this decision, so they continued to celebrate it on its original date. Finally in 1975 President Ford signed a law returning the annual observance of the holiday to November 11th.
Perhaps you know a veteran personally and you’re looking to honor them, or you want to contribute something meaningful to all veterans this year. There are many ways to do that right here in our community. Veterans Day events like parades or local services are great ways to celebrate our local vets. The Delaware County Veterans Legacy organizes the annual Veteran’s Day Parade held in Media, PA, an enjoyable event for the community where you can clap and cheer as these service members go by.
Delaware County Veterans Memorial
Did you know that right here in Marple you can also honor a veteran by purchasing a banner? You may have noticed the 53 banners along the major roads here in Broomall. These banners are part of the Hometown Hero program and can be purchased through the Broomall Rotary Club. Each banner is unique with a local veteran’s picture, their branch of service, era of service and sponsor’s name.
Broomall Rotarian Bill Brower was instrumental in getting the program started after he noticed hometown hero banners in other parts of Pennsylvania. “Through the support of the commissioners and the Broomall Rotary Club, we were able to make it happen here,” said Bill. “These banners serve as a tribute to recognize the men and women with a connection to Marple Township who have served or are serving our country in any branch of the United States Armed Forces.”
Tom McElwee’s banner near his home
Veteran Tom McElwee has a banner proudly displayed in front of his home on West Chester Pike. A member of the United States Navy who served from 1945-1947 aboard the USS Independence. Tom said his family gifted him the banner for his 90th birthday. “
Born in Upper Darby, Tom and his wife bought a home in Broomall in 1954 and raised their five children here. Not only did he receive a banner, but that year he also got the opportunity to ride in the Media Veterans Day parade with his uncle, a fellow World War II veteran.
Veterans Day is the perfect time to ask a veteran you know about their service. Some good questions are: What did you do in the military? How long did you serve? Why did you choose to go into a specific service branch? You may not have to say much, just listen as they tell you about their experience. You can even spend time with them in the great outdoors as the National Parks offer free admittance to all veterans on November 11th.
Perhaps you don’t know a local veteran, but if you know someone stationed overseas, this is a good time to send a care package. It’s fun to get the whole family involved by teaching children about the holiday and having them help make cards or crafts to add to the package. If you’re not sure where to mail the package, you can contact one of the nearby military bases to get information.
Of course the easiest thing to do is whenever you see someone in uniform, simply extend a word of gratitude or small act of kindness to show how much their service means to you.
Whether it’s attending an event, supporting a veteran-owned business, or simply striking up a conversation with a veteran, be sure to find a way to honor the bravery and sacrifice of all United States veterans. Marple Friends & Neighbors wishes all of our local veterans a Happy Veterans Day, and we sincerely thank these men and women for their service!
