Originally known as Armistice Day, it commemorates the official end of World War I during the 11th hour of the 11th day of the 11th month of November, 1918 when the Armistice with Germany went into effect.

President Woodrow Wilson recognized the first Armistice (Veterans) Day on November 11, 1919 when he proclaimed:

“To us in America, the reflections of Armistice Day will be filled with solemn pride in the heroism of those who died in the country’s service and with gratitude for the victory, both because of the thing from which it has freed us and because of the opportunity it has given America to show her sympathy with peace and justice in the councils of the nations.”

This short video is courtesy of a young friend of ours, Brandon Hess. 

Brandon submitted this short film as his entry for Sean Hannity’s (Fox News) “Great American Video Contest“  in 2010.

The video, which won first place in the national contest, was shot entirely on location in and around the Harrisburg region and the actors featured all served in our military.

Brandon and his wife Tara, are currently living in California and are writing the feature version of their thesis film, First in Flight, which depicts the story of the Wright Brothers.

They also have started a production company under the label of Hess-Tucker Productions and are making a difference in Hollywood!

Much of the freedoms we enjoy today in our country are attributable to the sacrifices made on our behalf by many brave men and women.

To coin a familiar phrase “Freedom is not free!”

If you cross paths with a veteran today, I’d like to encourage you to take a moment and in the spirit of Brandon’s film, pass along some honor today!

If you care to add to your “thank you” a random act of kindness, go for it!

THANK YOU to all those who have served our nation to ensure we have the opportunity to live the lives we so richly enjoy! 

If you know of a veteran who may be blessed by Brandon’s film, by all means share via the Facebook, Twitter, or LinkedIn buttons or pass along an email.

Photos Courtesy of Brittany Castillejo