Veterans Day is celebrated on November 11 of every year in the United States to honor veterans of the armed forces. The holiday originated as the one-year anniversary of the end of World War I, known as Armistice Day. It was then commemorated. It became the national holiday we know as Veterans Day in 1938. Each year, ceremonies are held at the Tomb of the Unknowns and flowers are placed on the graves of service men and women throughout the country. Here, 3 Vital Proteins employees who served our country or have family members who serve share why Veterans Day is important to them.
Bill Miller, Vital Performance National Account Manager — Specialty & Military
"Veterans Day has always been special to me as a patriot. Ever since I was young, I’ve had great admiration for those who decided to serve their community and country. I love being an American and I believe that the freedoms we have here only exist because there are amazing people who have the courage to fight for those freedoms. As a veteran, I try to carry myself in a way that would make those who served before me proud and uphold their legacy for the next generation."
Served: USMC, Infantry, December 2001 – April 2009
Ruby Ward, Vital Proteins Electrician
"I would say most veterans have a love/hate relationship with Veterans Day. When I enlisted at the age of 17, I was very excited and eager to serve my country. While it was the best decision I made for my life, it was also one of the most difficult things I have gone through. Of course the thanks we get on Veterans Day and the gifts are greatly appreciated, but please remember that many of us are still suffering through PTSD and other disabilities the other 364 days of the year. Please, remember to support your veterans every other day. I am part of the staff at Brookfield VFW, and if anyone has questions about what they can do to help please reach out."
Served: EM2(SW/AW) Ward (6 years of service)
Koren Hairston, Senior Manager, Integrated Marketing
"For me, Veterans Day has several meanings. My father serving in the Army has shaped who I am today and the values I hope to uphold each and every day. I have such pride in telling people that my father is a Colonel and served our country. It takes so much courage and strength to make the ultimate sacrifice to serve our country and my father and so many others did or have done that. Because of all of the veterans that have served our country, I get the privilege to rest my head at night peacefully and say I call the USA my home with pride and honor."
Lively Note: As a thank you to those who have served and who are serving our country, we offer a military discount all year around. We truly appreciate your service.