Kansas Lt. Gov. Troy Findley went to Emporia today to mark Veterans Day in Kansas (Gov. Mark Parkinson is on a trade mission to China).
Why Emporia, you ask? Well, the Kansas town played a key role in creating the federal holiday that honors the sacrifices and service of our veterans.
Originally, of course, Nov. 11 was Armistice Day, marking the anniversary of the end of WWI. The day was applied to veterans of all wars only after an Emporia shopkeeper suggested the idea back in 1953.
Here's what Findley had to say today:
“We meet here today, at the 11th hour, of the 11th day in the 11th month to honor our Veterans. The origins of this day trace back to the official end of the First World War, Armistice Day; but it was in 1953 that the townspeople of Emporia suggested that it be a day to honor all of our heroes, both past and present.
“Kansas Congressman Edward Rees proposed such legislation the following year – and continuing this day’s ties to Kansas – it was signed into law by Abilene’s own President Eisenhower.
“Like President Eisenhower, thousands upon thousands of Kansans have answered the call to serve and protect our nation, both at home and abroad.
“Their loyalty to our country, its values, and its citizens is unparalleled. In return, we, as a state, greatly admire them for the many sacrifices they must make.
“The State of Kansas remains dedicated to doing everything possible to assist them and their families, not only while they are deployed, but also when they return home.
“Four years ago we implemented the Kansas Military Bill of Rights – this landmark legislation demonstrated with concrete action and tangible result, the support we have for our military families, recognizing the sacrifices they make for us.
“From helping military families buy a home for the first time, to exempting recruitment and retention bonuses from taxes, to ensuring that opportunity for a college education isn’t lost if a parent or spouse falls in battle – Kansas will always strive to be the most military-friendly state in the nation.
“Thank you again for being here today, and thank you for your unwavering service to our state and nation. God bless all of you, the Great State of Kansas, and the United States of America.”
