By Paul Waldmiller
Did you know that Veterans Day was originally established as “Armistice Day” which was first celebrated on the one-year anniversary of the first World War? We now celebrate what is now Veterans Day every year in tribute to all the men and women who have served in our beloved United States military. As we just celebrated this holiday, I am asking all to keep our fervor of support and love for our military heroes in making every day “Veterans Day.”
There are many ways we can help keep Veterans Day alive. We can begin this process by locating and finding veterans in our own community such as in our own churches, synagogues and or civic organizations. Once we have compiled a list of veterans, we can contact them and find out what their individual special needs are.
Although I have never served in the United States Military, I have served in law enforcement (for eight years). My time in law enforcement gave me a great exposure to paramilitary life and worked alongside many veterans as well. I was able to learn a great deal about the U.S military from those who actually served and I wish to pass along some of that information to you here in hope to help you make everyday a special one for a “vet.”
1. Not every veteran has had the same military experiences. We have five branches of the U.S. Military. Tailoring help to a veteran would include which branch of the military they served.
2. Not every veteran served during war time and not every veteran was involved in battle and or “seen action.” Those veterans who have been involved in armed battle have their own special needs. Knowledge of PTSD issues may be helpful for you.
3. Not every war is the same. A veteran serving during in Vietnam is much different than the experiences of those serving in Iraq or Afghanistan.
4. Some veterans experience criminal justice issues because of mental health issues related to combat, or other issues. Know local resources for veterans to seek the help they may need.