“Home of the free because of the brave.” Last week, red bracelets with this inscription began circulating amongst the Montrose student body. Devyn Gianino ‘20 and the National Honor Society distributed the bracelets as a fundraiser for the Cape and Islands Veterans Outreach Center, which supports homeless veterans across Cape Cod. The message on the bracelets speaks volumes about the gratitude we owe to those who have served for our nation. This Veterans Day, it our duty to recognize and thank the members of our military for the sacrifices they have made for our freedom.

Just over a century ago, America celebrated the end of World War I at 11 AM on November 11, 1918. Since then, the date has been dedicated in memorial and gratitude for our veterans. As a national holiday, it is meant to represent a pause in our regular day-to-day lives. Veterans Day is a time to reach out, pray for, and thank our family and friends who have served or currently serve in the military. 

Montrose’s chaplain, Father Dick, served as a navy pilot during World War II. Last Friday, Montrose hosted the annual Father Daughter Bagel Breakfast to celebrate his 94th birthday. “Father Dick wore many different hats in his lifetime, and he was very proud to have served in the military. He also had two brothers who served during World War II,” said Head of School Dr. Bohlin at the breakfast. Many Montrosians weren’t aware that Father Dick served in the navy because, like many veterans, he has always been humble about his service to our country.

David Brooks, a renowned author and New York Times Op-Ed columnist, explores this sense of humility from veterans in his book, The Road to Character. He characterizes the humble attitude of the World War II generation, one that says, “No one’s better than me, but I’m no better than anyone else.” If you have a family member who has served in the military, or if you have ever spoken with a veteran, you know that this sentiment is universal. When you thank them for their service, they will often respond with a kind nod and a smile, or a small “you’re welcome.” As Brooks explains in his book, many World War II veterans view themselves as part of a bigger picture, a national effort to fight for freedom in which they were only a small puzzle piece. But today, we recognize that every veteran deserves ample gratitude for their service.

This Veterans Day, do what you can to appreciate our country’s veterans and all that they have done for us. Attend memorial services for your town, volunteer at local organizations, and donate to foundations like the Cape and Islands Veterans Outreach Center. Most importantly, offer your prayers and gratitude to veterans in your family and the Montrose community. On Veterans Day and everyday, remember the bravery of our veterans, and the sacrifices they have made to protect our home of the free.