Bonnie Taylor, UPAA District President
Every year on November 11th, our nation pauses to observe Veterans Day—a heartfelt tribute to the men and women who have worn the uniform of the United States Armed Forces. Originally marked as Armistice Day at the close of World War I, it remains an enduring promise that the courage and dedication of our service members will never fade from memory.
Across our communities, that gratitude comes to life in meaningful ways. Local high schools open their doors for special assemblies, bringing generations together. Fellowship flourishes as many units prepare veteran dinners and luncheons, ensuring our heroes know they are not forgotten. How touching would it be for our auxiliary juniors or grade school students to craft handmade greeting cards with a sincere expression of thanks that will brighten the day of every veteran who receives one?
As we celebrate our living veterans, this day is a crucial opportunity to recognize Green Star veterans and their families. While the Blue Star represents active duty and the Gold Star honors those lost in combat, the Green Star honors veterans who succumbed after their service—whether to physical wounds, service-connected illnesses, or the silent, unseen mental battles brought home from the front lines.
Honoring Green Star families reminds us that the true cost of service doesn’t always end when a deployment is completed. It calls on us to recognize the enduring sacrifices made by our military households and to stand by them with compassion and community support.
This Veterans Day, please take part in these local traditions. Attend a high school program, host a dinner or a luncheon, and help a child write a note of thanks. Together, let us ensure that every veteran—and every family who carried the weight of service—feels our deep gratitude for the communities they protected.