President Woodrow Wilson proclaimed Nov. 11 as the first commemoration of Armistice Day in November 1919. More than a century later, communities still observe the day by recognizing veterans for their patriotism, love of country and willingness to serve and sacrifice to preserve the freedoms Americans cherish.

Appreciation for veterans is shown in a variety of ways. The Luverne Public Library hosted a Veterans Day program Monday at the Luverne United Methodist Church DEI Center where community members gathered to honor local veterans. Residents of Meadowcrest Apartments in Luverne are shining their lights green for veterans throughout the month of November as part of Operation Green Light.

In Butler County, the Greenville Town Hall is lit up in green as a show of solidarity, recognizing the sacrifice and strength of veterans through the nationwide initiative, Operation Green Light. County and city offices and service closed for the holiday and many local businesses, like El Amigo Mexican Bar & Grill posted on social media to thank veterans for their service.

Local schools, like those in Lowndes County, held programs to honor veterans. Lowndes Academy recognized veterans during their Nov. 7 matchup with Jackson Academy in the first round of AISA playoffs. At The Calhoun School and Central High School in Hayneville, Junior Officer in Training Corps (JROTC) battalions celebrated veterans with programs held on each campus on Friday.

The U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs  holds a national ceremony each year at Arlington National Cemetery, where a wreath is placed at the Tomb of the Unknowns and a parade of colors with remarks from dignitaries honoring and thanking all who have served in the U.S. Armed Forces.

There are any number of ways to thank veterans for their service. Some businesses offer veterans special discounts or a free meal on Nov. 11. Towns line their streets with flags, hold community events, and observe the federal holiday by giving employees time off for the day.

However area citizens observe the day is not as relevant as the fact that 105 years after President Wilson’s proclamation, people continue taking the opportunity to thank veterans for their selfless service and sacrifice.

We also wish to thank the men and women of our communities for their service. In the words of Abraham Lincoln, “The brave men, living and dead, who struggled [for freedom], have consecrated it, far above our poor power to add or detract. The world will little note, nor long remember what we say here, but it can never forget what they did… .”