Here’s the original wording of the resolution from 1926:
Whereas the 11th of November 1918, marked the cessation of the most destructive, sanguinary, and far reaching war in human annals and the resumption by the people of the United States of peaceful relations with other nations, which we hope may never again be severed, and
Whereas it is fitting that the recurring anniversary of this date should be commemorated with thanksgiving and prayer and exercises designed to perpetuate peace through good will and mutual understanding between nations; and
Whereas the legislatures of twenty-seven of our States have already declared November 11 to be a legal holiday: Therefore be it Resolved by the Senate (the House of Representatives concurring), that the President of the United States is requested to issue a proclamation calling upon the officials to display the flag of the United States on all Government buildings on November 11 and inviting the people of the United States to observe the day in schools and churches, or other suitable places, with appropriate ceremonies of friendly relations with all other peoples.
This holiday always catches me a little by surprise and I’m not sure what to do or say to my kids. Perhaps talking about bravery, courage and patriotism and what freedom means to people? Talking about people we know who are soldiers (my father, brother, and niece)? Talk about how my father was an Air Force pilot and that he was in the Korean War? I’m not 100% sure, but I’d be remiss to let the day go by without something about who has fought and won our freedoms.
Susan Fox
(Daughter to Col. Loren Fox)
