In 1919, President Woodrow Wilson named November 11 “a day of solemn pride” – and more than a century later, Americans continue to honor Veterans Day in the same spirit.
Unlike many holidays, today is not an occasion for festive celebration, but heartfelt appreciation. Just as we remember the fallen on Memorial Day, today we thank the brave men and women of the military who served their nation and returned safely home, whether in war or in peacetime.
We also recognize that all service comes with sacrifice – and that sacrifice is measured not only in the loss of life, but in hardships, separations, and holidays spent on distant shores.
Held on the anniversary of the armistice that ended World War I, Veterans Day recalls the moment American’s sons and daughters laid down their burdens and came home. Likewise, we are reminded of our duty as a nation to be faithful to veterans when their service is over, and ensure they always have a place of honor in the society they willingly defended.
Whether through a moment of silence, a ceremony, a donation to a veteran’s aid charity, or a gesture of appreciation for a loved one who served, we all play a role in upholding that duty on Veterans Day – and returning, in some small measure, the debt of gratitude we owe.
Here at The Glenridge, we’re honored to say “thank you” to the more than 100 veterans – representing all branches of the U.S. military – who have called our community home. At the same time, we recognize the ways in which they continue to serve and elevate our nation through their character, courage and leadership.
At the heart of our campus, the Veterans and Visionaries Memorial Eagle stands in enduring tribute to that legacy – a stunning bronze statue, nearly 12 feet high from base to wingtip, atop an octagonal base that commemorates each branch of the U.S. military. (You can read more about the story of the eagle statue, learn how it was made, and watch interviews with Glenridge veterans here.)
“The Glenridge is home to such a large percentage of veterans, including many who served in World War II,” says Dawn Agnew-Mundell, the statue’s sculptor. “We owe them so much – not just as a community, but as a country – and being able to pay tribute to their contributions through this statue is such an incredible honor.”
The Glenridge is committed to honoring our community’s veterans – not only for one day out of the year, but all year round.
To learn more about what life is like at The Glenridge on Palmer Ranch – once again named the best senior living community in Sarasota (for the 16th year in a row!) – visit our other blog posts or find us on Facebook.