Brethren,

In 1918, on the eleventh hour of eleventh day of the eleventh month (November 11, 1918), an armistice went into effect ending hostilities between the Allied nations and Germany. The Treaty of Versailles was signed some seven months later to officially end World War I (“The war to end all wars”).

On May 13, 1938, an Act of Congress made November 11th of each year a legal holiday known as “Armistice Day” to honor the veterans of World War I. In 1954, November 11th became “Veterans Day” and it officially became a day to honor American veterans of all wars.

In general, holidays today have become merely an opportunity to get away from work, a family cookout, or shop the holiday sales. Let us as a Lodge, observe the holiday as it was intended by celebrating and honoring American veterans for their patriotism, for their love of country, and their willingness to serve and in many cases sacrifice their lives for the freedoms we all enjoy today.

Join your Worshipful Master and brethren on Saturday, November 11, 2006 at the City of Bowie Veterans Memorial Park starting 11:00 AM for the annual wreath laying ceremony.

Sincerely & Fraternally,
Bro. Chris Pierson, JS
Veterans Committee Chair