Though the Treaty of Versailles was signed in June of 1919, fighting continued for an additional seven months before WWI truly ended with an armistice in the “eleventh hour of the eleventh day of the eleventh month.” Armistice Day, which we now celebrate as Veterans Day, is a tribute to all American veterans who have served our country during war or peacetime.
There are over 500,000 veterans living in New York, and it’s a privilege to honor their service and dedication to our country. Whether it’s attending a parade, participating in an event, volunteering or donating to a veteran-centered cause, or simply saying “thank you” to someone who served, I hope we all had an opportunity this week to acknowledge the veterans in our lives and our communities.
The valor and fortitude of both veterans and those currently serving uphold the values of our country. I know I speak on behalf of Orange County when I thank every one of them for their dedication to the protection of our nation.
“As we express our gratitude we must never forget that the highest appreciation is not to utter words but to live by them.”
John F. Kennedy, 1963
