One Hundred Years Since the War to End All Wars Began
Armistice Day
As the European nations, which fought in the Great War, begin to mark the one hundredth anniversary, of the start of this tragic conflict, stopping to honor their dead; we in the United States, remember all Veterans who have honorably and selflessly served their nation.
Regardless of how you may feel about armed conflicts, those who serve deserve our gratitude and respect. Sadly, the world is once again facing aggression in multiple theaters, with thousands of men and women risking their lives to protect those who cannot fend for themselves. I thank all of our Veterans and those in active service, may God bless and keep you and may you know that your sacrifice has not been in vain.
Please share this link with all Veterans; it deals with various ways businesses are trying to show their support for our military heroes:
I find the tribute, in England, of ceramic poppies, one to honor each of their dead, most admirable; I very much wish I could have seen this display.
A short video explaining the exhibition of poppies at the Tower of London: http://www.bbc.com/news/uk-28658498
An excellent article, addressing the history of this moment: http://www.bbc.co.uk/timelines/z229kqt
The poppy: http://www.theweek.co.uk/uk-news/61167/remembrance-day-how-the-poppy-came-to-symbolise-wwi
A brief history of Armistice Day; and my reflections upon walking the beaches of Normandy and the hallowed ground where many of the dead, from the battles waged, on this piece of land and sea, during World War II, were laid to rest: http://thatisallfornow.com/?p=1964
In Flanders Field, the first Ode to the Poppies: http://thatisallfornow.com/?p=1929
(I deeply regret that I do not know the name of the artist who executed this painting. It is printed on the right hand side, but I am afraid I cannot make out the name; I clipped this picture, from a magazine, years ago. )
