On Veterans Day, the nation pauses to honor Americans across the generations who’ve served in our military.
This day originated as Armistice Day, marking the signing of the armistice between the Allied nations and Germany which went into effect at 11 am on Nov. 11, 1918. It is a national holiday in France, England, and many nations that were allied in World War I; several changed the name from Armistice Day to Remembrance Day; we changed it first to All Veterans Day which then got shortened to Veterans Day.
The MLWGS library has several relevant nonfiction books, biographies, novels, poetry, movies, and documentaries. Some of the books are currently on display on the library circulation desk and the window sill beside the chalk wall. Here is a poem by poet and Vietnam veteran Yusef Yomunyakaa, “Facing It.”
If you prefer to reflect outdoors, consider visiting a nearby national park (e.g., Yorktown Battlefield) after school. Admission to national parks is free on Veterans Day. There are no admission fees at Petersburg Battlefield or Richmond Battlefield parks.
Wendy DeGroat
Librarian (a.k.a., Resourceress)
