Originally known as Armistice Day, it was first celebrated in 1920, to remind us of the 11th hour of the 11th day in the 11th month, when the armistice which ended World War I ("the war to end all wars") was signed. It was made a legal holiday by Congress in 1938. Although it moved to a Monday holiday starting in 1971, due to the objections of Veterans Service Organizations it is also celebrated on its original date. This allowed Americans to commemorate the historical significance of the date.

We would like to remind all citizens to take time over the Veterans Day weekend to remember its true meaning by honoring America's Veterans of all wars and conflicts. For too many, it is forgotten -- a day off from school or work, or for taking advantage of Veterans Day Sales are our local shopping centers.

This year take time to remember those who gave us the freedoms that we enjoy today. There is no better opportunity to teach our children the true meaning of the holiday, than by bringing them to one of the local Veterans Day ceremonies in the area where they can witness the patriotic spirit of their ancestors, and honor our American heroes who supplied us the freedom we cherish so deeply.

The Post is participating in several activities to celebrate Veterans Day, and the help of all members is appreciated. Please join us for whatever you can.

• Annual Voice of Democracy and Patriot's Pen contest for students, and Teacher of the Year entries for teachers are due by Oct 31. See the Nationa VFW website for information. Then join us at the Post as we judge the entries we get
  (watch for date and time)
  


• Raleigh Veteran's Day Parade - Saturday, Nov. 4 at Capitol Square - meet at the Post by 7:30 AM to help load the truck, or downtown at 8:30 AM to assemble our float. Parade starts at 9:30. See more info
  
  
• Town of Garner celebration of Veterans Day - Saturday, Nov 11 at Aversboro Road Baptist Church - patriotic program honoring the residents who served and their family members. See more info. Workers are needed starting at 9:45 AM to pass out flags and poppies to the citizens as they come in. The program begins with a mini-patriotic concert, followed by a program at 11:00 AM featuring guest speakers. There will be tours throughout the day at the Veterans Memorial from 10:00 AM till 2:00 PM
  
  
• Buddy Poppy Drive - throughout the weekend, members are needed to have Poppies available at the parade on Saturday, and at local businesses throughout the weekend. Sign up at the Post for a 4 hour shift.
  
  
• Annual Post Veterans Day Essay Contest Saturday, Nov 17, starting at 1:00 pm - join us at the Post while we judge essays written by students from East Garner Middle School - judges need to help determine the winners.

Here are a few Veterans Day discounts in the area that you might like to know about:

• Veterans Day Discounts: Many area and nationwide business offer discounts to Veterans and active duty military personnel on Veterans Day, and even throughout the year. See the current list from military.com or at militarybenefits.