Honoring veterans

Today is the official date of Veterans Day, which will be observed Monday as a federal and state holiday. The date -- Nov. 11 -- is important to many of us, because what originally was the date to celebrate the armistice that ended World War I was the 11th hour of the 11th day of the 11th month. Many a schoolchild learned to remember this special date with that memory device.

Now Veterans Day honors all veterans. It is a time to honor the men and women who gave their lives, endured injuries and served their nation in uniform. This is a day to thank veterans for their service. This is a day to say a special prayer for veterans, both living and dead.

Several area schools have already had special events to honor veterans, and more events are planned.

At 11 a.m. today, the American Legion will have a ceremony at Freedom Corner in Capaha Park at the corner of Broadway and West End Boulevard.

Sunday lunch at the Missouri Veterans Home in Cape Girardeau will be provided by the International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers and Schnucks, followed by bingo.

At 1:30 p.m. today, the Cape Girardeau Area Joint Veterans Council is sponsoring a ceremony in Arena Park.

At 4 p.m. today, American Legion and Veterans of Foreign Wars posts will sponsor the Jackson Veterans Day parade at Jackson High School.

Immediately following the Jackson parade, the American Legion and VFW will have a ceremony at New McKendree United Methodist Church.

At 9 a.m. Thursday, Kelly High School in Benton will hold a ceremony for veterans.

With all these opportunities, please take time to honor our veterans and express your gratitude to them.