Vernon J. Baker Remembered
Veterans Day Observance
The 11th hour on the 11th day of the 11th month in the year 1918, the peace treaty was signed to mark the end of “the war to end all wars.” This date in history is honored by observing Veterans Day each year on November 11. The first year anniversary, November 11, 1919 was known as “Armistice Day,” and in 1926, it became an annual observance, and then in 1938, it became a national holiday. Finally, in 1954, President Dwight D. Eisenhower officially changed the name from Armistice Day to Veterans Day. Veterans Day commemorates all veterans of all wars.
Clearly, we did not learn the lesson from “the war to end all wars.” Wars have continued and men and women from every generation have continued to serve in our country’s military forces.
United Church of Christ’s News Editor Gregg Brekke wrote:
Vernon J. Baker, an African American who received the Medal of Honor for his heroic service in Italy during World War II, died in July 2010. His picture is displayed in the Pentagon. Beneath the picture are his eloquent and deeply moving words about war and war’s impact on the lives of those who serve. Baker wrote: “War is the most regrettable proving ground. Those who launch it, and those who seek to create heroes from it, should remember war’s legacy. You have to be there to appreciate its horrors — and die to forget them.”
“You have to be there to appreciate its horrors - and die to forget them.”
As I read these words, I find myself greatly disqualified in suggesting how we might honor, observe, or commemorate those who have served in our military forces. And so I acknowledge right away that my words are inadequate, and I will simply start with the definition of the word “commemorate” - that is, to recall, remember, and show respect by doing something.
To veterans I say, “We see you; we can’t imagine what you have been through or what you have endured. We acknowledge the sacrifices you have made and that your families have made. Whether we agree that a war was justified, we know that you willingly made sacrifices to serve your country. We realize that there may be wounds that we are able to see and so many more that we cannot see, and you might feel the burden of bearing them alone. We pray for healing for you, and we hope that you may have a sense of pride and accomplishment for your willingness to serve your country. Family members and friends are proud of you, and as help may be needed, we want to be there for you. You might have to tell us and show us how to do that in better ways.”
To everyone else I say, “Reach out to veterans you know and ask them what would be meaningful and helpful. Support agencies and ministries that help to bring healing and support for veterans and their families. Honor their service by working for and praying for peace.
Let us pray. Almighty and merciful God, we commend to your gracious care and keeping all the men and women who have served in our military forces at home and abroad. We give you thanks for their sacrificial service to our country and the dignified pride with which they served. As our nation observes the selfless service they have offered, make us mindful of ongoing care that is needed, heal the wounds that are both visible and invisible, and may the peace that we all desire for our world be a peace that they can find in their own hearts. We long for the time when there will be no more war, and we pray that you use us all to work for that peace in our world. With thankfulness for all veterans, we lift these prayers to you, in the name of the one who gave his life for all, Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen.