It happened almost a hundred years ago - the Great War, the World War - now known as World War One, as there would be more than one great world war in the 20th century. For many of us, our great grandparents, grandparents, and even parents may have fought in this war. To all of us still living, the Great War seems like ancient history.
Volumes were written about this war, which H.G. Wells called - "The War That Will End War." For a summary, below is a brief history of the First World War:
The "armistice" to end the war took effect on November 11, 1918 - at the 11th hour of 11th day of 11th month. And became known as - Armistice Day ... later Veteran's Day.
.... 11/11/11 ....
But this year - 2011 - marks a milestone as the the last of the World War One veterans have passed away.
Frank Buckles
The last living U.S. World War I veteran, Frank Buckles, passed away in February this year at the age of 110 - his story. He served in both World Wars. During WW1, he was an ambulance driver. In WW2, he was a POW, captured by the Japanese.
Rest in peace and we are grateful for your service to our country
Claude 'Chuckles' Choules
The last of the front line World War One veterans, Claude 'Chuckles' Choules, passed away in May this year, also at the age of 110 - his story He also served in both World Wars. In WW1, he was a sailor in the Australian Royal Navy; WW2 a demolitions officer in Australia .
May you rest peacefully as your countrymen are grateful for your service to your country as well as your service to all your allies.
For all Veterans, Thank You!
May you all enjoy the Veterans' Homecoming:
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Ecards for Veterans Day -
* Veteran's Day prayer
* Making a difference
* The service of veterans
* Veteran's Day blessing
* Honor is Due
* Never Forget
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Previous post on Veterans Day:
Veterans Day - World War One Soldiers Remembered (2009)
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Related posts:
3 birthdays, 3 presidents, 3 centuries, 3 defining wars ... (2011)
A kiss immortalized in August 14, 1945 (2010)
The Story Behind the Star Spangled Banner (2010)
Remembering D-Day - June 6, 1944 (2010)
Welcome Home, Troops! (2010)
Christmas 1776 - the gift of freedom (2009)
Pearl Harbor Day, 1941 - World War Two Soldiers Remembered (2009)
July 1776 & July 1863 (2009)
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Photos from:
everystockphoto.com: great-grandfather in WWI military uniform
wikipedia commons: @
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