As Veterans Day approaches, my heart is full of gratitude for the men and women of the armed forces. Check out this photo of my dad, Jerry Gamblin, during his deployment. Dashing and dedicated (is there any resemblance?) he set aside years of life to serve his country.
It's a pleasure to honor him on Veterans Day. He served in the Navy during the Korean War and doesn't consider himself a hero, but I do. Choosing to serve in conflict to protect the freedoms that we enjoy is the best definition of a hero that I can think of!
“The legacy of heroes is the memory of a great name and the inheritance of a great example.”--Benjamin Disraeli
I truly feel blessed by my father's example of loyalty, service, and love for others. I am working every day to honor that legacy. Thanks, Dad.
What are the origins of Veterans Day?
On the 11th hour of the 11th day of the 11th month in 1918, World War I was declared over. Weapons were set aside. The fighting was over.
Three years later, an unknown World War I American soldier was laid to rest in Arlington National Cemetery, overlooking the cold Potomac River. This event—and location—subsequently became a point of reverence for America’s veterans.
This burial ceremony was no the first of its kind, however. In England and France, similar events had occurred—on November 11.
Today Veterans are honored on November 11 with many ceremonies beginning at—you guessed it—11:00 am. If you are looking for an opportunity to honor Veterans, I’ve got you covered!
Honor Veterans in Walnut Creek
Walnut Creek has a wonderful Veterans Day tribute at the Lesher Center. Enjoy patriotic music by the Walnut Creek Concert Band with Vietnam Veteran Bill Green as a keynote speaker. Don't forget to walk through the Walnut Creek Veterans memorial outside city hall.