| How Veterans Day came to fall on November 11 |
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When
hostilities ceased in November of 1918,
President Wilson gave the American
Expeditionary Force Commander, General John
"Black Jack" Pershing, full authority to set
the date and... time of the
Armistice. Pershing was an active and
enthusiastic Elk, and selected the 11th hour
of the 11th day of November, the 11th month,
as the effective time of the Armistice. This
was Pershing's salute to the memory of those
soldiers "Elks and non-Elks alike" who
perished during the long and brutal
conflict. The hour of 11 p.m. continues to
have a special significance to the Elks, as
it is the time when, at any evening Elks
event, all activity ceases and all members
and guests rise while the chimes ring 11
times and the "Eleven O'clock Toast" is
given in recollection of deceased members.
Veterans Day continues to be observed on
November 11, regardless of what day of the
week on which it falls. The observance
of Veterans Day November 11 not only
preserves the historical significance of the
date, but helps focus attention on the
important purpose of Veterans Day: A
celebration to honor America's veterans for
their patriotism, love of country, and
willingness to serve and sacrifice for the
common good. Join the Kemah Elks for
their moving observance
each year! Call for time and
date.
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623 Hanson Rd, Kemah, TX 77565 281-334-2322
Our pledge: “So long as there are Veterans, the Benevolent and Protective Order of Elks will never forget them." ©
This page was donated by a friend of the Elk's in Kemah, Texas.