This Veteran’s Day – Respect, Remember, Support

Respect, Remember, Support

Those 3 words are a great representation of Burns Logistics Solutions position on our military.  We have a tremendous sense of patriotism at BLS. With that comes a strong desire to show respect to our veterans, as well as support for our current military. 

With Veteran’s Day approaching we thought we’d share how it all started…

Origins of Veteran’s Day

President Woodrow Wilson proclaimed “Armistice Day” in 1919 as a day set aside to recognize the end of the World War. In the 11th hour, of the 11th day, of the 11th month in 1918 the hostilities ceased, thereby bringing the war to an end.  

Congress declared Armistice Day a legal holiday nearly 20 years later, on May 13, 1938. This was originally intended to honor veterans of the World War.  Nine years later, on November 11, 1947, in Birmingham, Alabama, Raymond Weeks (a WW II veteran) organized a “National Veteran’s Day” parade intended to recognize veterans of all wars.  This event led Congress to change Armistice Day to Veteran’s Day in 1954, 36 years after the end of World War I.  Who says government wheels turn slowly?! (Maybe they should talk to Big Ed about keeping their wheels turning…)

Today, 99 years after the end of World War I, parades, special events, and ceremonies can be found nation-wide on November 11th, to honor the veterans of our military.

Support Our Troops – Packages from Home

In addition to the remembrance of our veterans, we are always looking for ways to support our current troops.  I am so happy to stand and support our troops by participating in the Kingpin Invitational Golf Tournament which supports Packages from Home (a non-profit organization dedicated to U.S. service men and women).  Thanks to my friend and colleague, Dan Egan, for hosting this terrific event each year. Dan is VP of sales with Mode Transportation in Columbus, GA.  Funds raised through the Kingpin invitational provide comfort packages to deployed American service persons.  In addition to support for our current military, Packages from Home also offers the Packages for Hope program, which aids veterans in transition, and the Bones from Home program, which provides items for military working dogs.   Please visit www.packagesfromhome.org to learn more about this remarkable organization, and how you can help.

Happy Veteran’s Day to all active and former U.S. military service members! We are grateful for your service.