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GLEANINGS FROM THE GROVE

those who had fallen in Britain, France, Italy, those who have and who are currently preserving

and the United States dedicating their “tomb our freedom, our way of life, and our lives
of the unknown soldier” from that conflict. through their sacrifice—sometimes the ultimate
Congress declared it an annual observance in sacrifice at that—for us all. Freedom today does
1926, with President Roosevelt signing the bill not know race, religion, or gender. It supports and

declaring it a national holiday in 1938. While establishes all three as an opportunity for living
being called Remembrance Day elsewhere, the within the confines of our borders or borders of
name was changed in 1954 to Veteran’s Day. I those who are unable to do so.
had the privilege while in Alaska to participate As a member of the Orthodox church, we

with the Alaska Army/Air National Guard and have a tradition upon the death of a loved one,
the Canadian Air Force Joint Remembrance a family member, a friend, or even someone not
Day/Veteran’s Day commemoration-combined known to us to say the words “May their Memory
bands and activities at Camp Denali. Be Eternal.” May we be mindful of those who

Raise your hand if you are still confused have fallen, those who have served, and those
as to which holiday honors who? Good. I see a currently serving and say a prayer of thanks and
few of you may benefit from something that I forever be more grateful.
discovered years ago. That is, in simple terms,

what the three days honor.
Do you have your pencil or pen (tablet or
notebook) at the ready? Here are the three and “Let every nation know

their purposes.
Memorial Day honors those who died whether it wishes us well or

serving in the U.S. Armed Forces. The past, so
to speak, for those who can no longer speak. ill, we shall pay any price,
Veteran’s Day honors the living who have
served in the U.S. Armed Forces at any time or bear any burden, meet any

conflict.
Armed Forces Day honors those currently hardship, support any friend,

serving in the U.S. Armed Forces. There are now
seven branches of the U.S. Forces: Army, Navy, oppose any foe, to assure

Marine Corps, Air Force, Space Force, Coast
Guard, and National Guard. the survival and success of
I gently call upon each Toastmaster to
remember the reason behind these holidays and liberty.” – J. F. Kennedy

celebrations. They are not for a day off, an auto
race, or picnic, but to quietly recognize and honor

32 ONE COMMUNITY