Honor Your WWII Veteran This Veteran's Day!

Do you have a veteran from World War II in your family? November 11th is Veteran's Day. On May 25, 1993, President Clinton signed a public law so that the American Battle Monument Commission could establish the National World War II Memorial. The National World War II Memorial honors "The Greatest Generation" fallen heroes and those who served and supported the war of World War II. This memorial is symbolic of the American spirit and pride during this period and the sacrifices made from them. It was probably the last time in history; we have felt as united in our patriotism as a nation. It was dedicated on Veteran's Day in 1995. I wonder how many veterans are still not mentioned on the World War II memorial. Little do you realize how easy it is to list someone on the memorial.

If it wasn't for a relative of mine making me aware of the fact I could include my father's name to this memorial for free, I would not have been aware of this. My father passed away in 1993 prior to the memorial being finished. I heard of this memorial however, I guess I didn't put two plus two together. I didn't realize how easy it was to put my own father's name in the memorial. As I mentioned registration is free. Go to the site and you can register your veteran:

However, to add a photo there is a fee of $10 per photo. If you have a problem registering online, you can also print out the form and mail it.

There were 16 million Americans who served in World War II, and I am sure many of them were not recognized on this memorial as to date. The memorial is located in the National Mall in Washington D. C. at the eastern end of the reflecting pool between the Lincoln and Washington Monument.

After many years of discussion going back to 1987 from the proposal of a World War II veteran, Roger Dubin, the monument was finally built. Congress was concerned that our World War II veterans were passing away before any national display of some kind could be erected in time to honor them. However, on November 11, 2000, Senator Bob Dole who was a World War II veteran himself, Tom Hanks and President Clinton, and over 7,000 in attendance celebrated the ground breaking ceremony. The formal dedication of the memorial was actually made on May 29, 2004.

What perfect gift for your World War II veteran whether living or deceased to honor them on this Veteran's Day by registering with the National World War II Memorial.