“This nation will remain the land of the free only so long as it is the home of the brave.” —Elmer Davis
Today, the United States observes Veterans Day, and the rest of the world observes Armistice Day, or Remembrance Day. It marks the signing of the armistice that ended the fighting in World War I. Millions will observe a moment of silence at 11:00 a.m.
At the Tower of London, a sea of ceramic red poppies cover the lawn to commemorate Britain’s involvement in World War I 100 years ago. It is an art installation titled “Blood Swept Lands and Seas of Red” and is by artist Paul Cummins and Tom Piper. There are 888,246 poppies – one for each British serviceman who died during World War I.
The poppies were placed over four months by 19,000 volunteers, with the final one placed today by a 13-year-old cadet. The photo above was taken midway through the placing. The green lawn is now completely covered.
Here’s what it looked like last evening:
What a stunning, beautiful tribute to those lost a century ago.
Thank you to all who have served, who have given of themselves to make our great safe, free and great. Thank you to their families who have also made incredible sacrifices.
To the more than 21 million veterans in the United States – we are grateful for you.
I hope you can find a vet to thank today. Remember what President John F. Kennedy said, ““As we express our gratitude, we must never forget that the highest appreciation is not to utter words, but to live by them.”
You can find Veterans Day quotes here, and facts about the occasion here.
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