Never alone. These two words can mean the difference of life and death, physically, mentally, and emotionally. As World War 1 raged, pilots took to the air first the first time to engage in battle. In order to take down an enemy plane, the safest and most successful position was to fly directly behind the opponent to take the shot. It was here that pilots first used the term “I got your six.” In the military, a clock is used to inform position: twelve o’clock is above, six o’clock is straight behind. As a pilot maneuvered behind his own airman, he was in a place that would keep his fellow pilot safe- the six o’clock position. This term is used in all branches of the military today, as well as in civilian life. “I got your six” is a promise that someone is watching out for another, ready to act and defend. It is a vow of loyalty that will never allow another to be without help to face the enemy, no matter if that enemy is seen or unseen. It is the ability to stand up, advocate. And fight for, and if required, die for another. “I got your six” is an idea that everyone should consider embracing daily, in each interaction.
Every generation is faced with conflict, and in each, there are those who rise to the call of their nation. Their motivations are different, but their love of family and country is the thread that binds these men and women who come from diverse ethnicities, beliefs, and lifestyles. From the Bronx to Beverly Hills, from Philly to Palm Beach, there are moments in time that spark feelings of helplessness, followed by a fierce desire to protect and defend all that is sacred: December 7, 1941 resulted in 134,000 enlistees within 30 days, and there were 181,500 new military members directly following the terrorist attacks on September 11, 2001 . If asked why they choose to sacrifice everything, veterans respond with answers such as “to be part of something bigger than myself,” and “so others will never have to.” “Nemo Resideo” is included in the creed of every branch of the military, and simply means “no man left behind.” Never thinking of themselves, but continuously seeking the safety and freedom of their comrades and countrymen, United States active duty and military veterans are prepared to pay the ultimate cost to ensure that others can live without threat of danger or fear. Any veteran who is asked what it feels like to be a hero will respond with tear-filled eyes “the heroes are those who did not make it home.” Their humility and loyalty are hard to comprehend, yet heartfelt. Soldiers are part of a brotherhood that only they can understand, they learn the meaning of dedication and integrity, and they represent the meaning of “good citizens and good soldiers.”
It is only fitting that The United States of America celebrates and honors all Veterans on November 11
During the eleventh hour of the eleventh day of the eleventh month of the year 1918 the world was forever changed. Germany signed an Armistice with The Allied nations, bringing World War I to an end, after 4 years of conflict. One year later, November 11, 1919, President Woodrow Wilson recognized the importance of demonstrating the country’s gratitude toboth returning soldiers and those who had lost their lives overseas by announcing the remembrance of “Armistice Day.” In 1926, congress requested flag celebrations, and in 1939, Armistice Day became a public holiday, as the nation understood the urgency of honoring those who chose to defend their homeland, no matter what the cost.
Unfortunately, WWI was not “the war to end all wars.” The attack on Pearl Harbor in 1941 drove America to become active in WW II, in which 16 million Americans served, followed by the Korean War, Vietnam, The Persian Gulf, Afghanistan and Iraq. The year 1954 saw President Dwight D Eisenhower rededicate the date of November 11, this time to ALL veterans, renaming it Veterans Day, for their bravery, courage, selflessness, and sacrifice to this country, for service both in war and times of peace. Throughout the history of the United States, nearly 41 million men and women have heard and answered the call to serve their country, and for this, I have the utmost respect and undying gratitude.
It is imperative for military personnel to know that others have their back, both on and off the battlefield. The physical and mental health challenges that veterans face are something that most civilians cannot grasp, but there are things that can be done. Simple actions like saying “thank you,” writing letters, volunteering at or donating to veterans causes, and supporting veteran owned companies are amazing ways to show appreciation. If you are concerned about a veteran you know, encourage them to practice self-care, be there and listen, and assist in connecting them with local a Veterans Administration. This Saturday, do not forget to fly a flag, if you see a veteran out, buy them a meal, express your gratitude for their service, and let them know that you “HAVE THEIR SIX.”
Holly Girty, CPSS, Supervisor
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