Veterans Day
We salute all veterans—past, present, and future—for their service.
By Col. Warren S. Lacy, USA-Ret.

On the 11th hour of the 11th day of the 11th month of 1918, World War I drew to a close. In 1926, Congress officially recognized November 11 as the end of the first modern global conflict. In 1938, Congress declared the day a legal holiday “dedicated to the cause of world peace and to be hereafter celebrated and known as ‘Armistice Day.’”

Armistice Day was primarily a day to honor veterans of World War I. But the nation would later see the largest mobilization in its history during World War II. And soon after, Americans were fighting aggression in Korea. To recognize the continuing contribution of veterans, in 1954 Congress amended the Act of 1938, replacing “Armistice” with “Veterans.” Thus Nov. 11 became a day to honor American veterans of all wars.

According to the VA, there are more than 25 million living veterans. Fewer than 200 World War I veterans still are alive. Other living veterans include 4,370,000 from World War II; 3,580,000, Korean War; 8,382,000, Vietnam War; 1,889,000, Desert Shield/ Desert Storm; and more than 76,000 from the war on terrorism.

During the year 2004, we’ve focused a great deal of attention on veterans of World War II. One reason for this renewed interest was the dedication of the World War II Memorial—which was completed some 59 years after the war’s end. Another reason is our nation is rapidly losing members of the “greatest generation.” In this issue of Military Officer, we revisit the National Mall’s newest memorial to give you views of the site and its visitors several months after the dedication ceremony (page 52).

This month we also attempt to balance a view of veterans of past wars with a snapshot of those who will be veterans of today’s war, the war on terrorism. Our look at today’s service comes courtesy of Gen. Peter Schoomaker, Army chief of staff. In our interview (page 60), Schoomaker talks about transforming the Army into a force ready for a new century and a more dangerous world.

“We will not be successful in the war on terror if we do not transform our capabilities,” says Schoomaker. “We will not be effective and relevant in the 21st century unless we become much more agile, but with the capacity for a long-term, sustained level of conflict.”

No matter how the Army transforms its organization and doctrine, its strength lies with its people, the brave men and women who will be the nation’s next generation of veterans. “America ought to be very proud of our soldiers,” says Schoomaker. “They are extraordinarily brave. I truly believe they’re the next ‘greatest generation.’”

On this Veterans Day, join us once again to salute veterans—past, present, and future—who honorably serve their country.