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As Americans we are fortunate to enjoy many liberties and freedoms that others can only dream of. These liberties and freedoms, taken for granted by some, seen as a right by others, are made possible by the sacrifices of the men and women of the United States Armed Forces. 

Veteran’s Day is Friday and our nation will honor America’s military veterans for their patriotism, willingness to serve and their sacrifice for the common good.

Originally known as Armistice Day, Veteran’s Day was created in recognition of the ending hostilities of World War I. In 1918, on the 11th day of the 11th month an armistice was declared between the Allied nations and Germany. In 1938 Nov. 11 became a federal holiday in the United States and in June 1954 the holiday was officially changed to Veterans Day, a day to honor American Veterans of all wars.

Veterans stand up for all Americans regardless of race, social standing, political party or individual beliefs. They willingly put their very lives on the line to defend the United States of America and her people. Freedom isn’t free, there is a price to be paid, and that debt has been paid for by our veterans

To all those who have served and to those who continue to serve and sacrifice so that we may enjoy our many freedoms and privileges — thank you. We owe a great debt of gratitude to each and every one of you. 

Betty J. Ramsey is the publisher of The Tidewater News. She can be reached at Betty.Ramsey@TheTidewaterNews.com.