On the 11^th hour, of the 11^th day, of the 11^th month, Missouri’s National Veterans Memorial (MNVM) held its sixth annual Veterans Day ceremony to honor all our nation’s Veterans. MNVM was honored to have Command Sergeant Major (Ret.), Marvin L. Hill, as the guest speaker. Throughout CSM Hill’s military career, he was awarded the Defense Superior Service Medal with two oak leaf clusters, the Bronze Star Medal, the Joint Service Commendation Medal for Valor, Combat Action Badge, and many others. CSM Hill’s overseas deployments included Sinai, Kosovo, Afghanistan, and Iraq. In addition to his overseas service, CSM Hill was also involved in the domestic response to Hurricanes Katrina and Rita. After 35 years of selfless service, CSM Hill retired and is currently working in the private sector as a Project Manager for FedEx Freight where he focuses on Veteran Initiatives and Programs.

MNVM’s Board Vice President, Clayton Hahs, sang the National Anthem and introduced CSM Hill. MNVM’s Executive Director, Rae Lynn Munoz, was also present for the ceremony, along with over 250 guests. The Veterans Day ceremony dovetails with MNVM’s mission to pay tribute to all our service men and women and their families and provide an environment for peaceful reflection.

What is Veterans Day?

Veterans Day is observed annually on November 11th. The date marks the armistice signed between the Allies and Germany, ending World War I. The armistice took effect on the 11th hour of the 11th day of the 11th month in 1918. Originally known as Armistice Day, it was later renamed Veterans Day in the United States to honor all military veterans.

Veterans Day is a time to recognize and thank all military veterans, regardless of whether they served in times of peace or war, and whether they are currently active or retired. This special day provides an opportunity to learn about the history of our country’s military service; moreover, it is a time to reflect on the freedoms and liberties we enjoy because of the sacrifices made by veterans. It’s a chance to pause and think about the value of these freedoms in our daily lives.