Happy Veterans Day 2018

November 11, 2018 is the 100th anniversary of the end of World War I fighting at 11 a.m., November 11, 1918 (the 11th hour of the 11th day of the 11th month). The day became known as “Armistice Day.” In 1954,  Congress passed the bill that President Eisenhower signed proclaiming November 11 as Veterans Day.

As a reminder, Veterans Day is day set aside to honor men and women who served in one of the branches of the US Armed Forces during both peacetime and in times of war or military conflicts. We honor men and women in every military specialty to include those who deployed to a foreign country as well as the men and women who remained stateside during their time of service. I'm grateful for every single veteran,  whether they served for 30 days or 30 plus years.  The point is they are part of the less than one percent of our great nation who has served and each one is indeed a military veteran. 

The Armed Forces includes all five branches; the Army, the Air Force, the Navy Marines Corp, and the Coast Guard. Comment below about your branch or the branch of your service member. It'll be interesting to see pictures and to read your comments. 

Whereas Veterans Day is a time to honor all who served, it is different from Memorial Day, which is set aside to honor those who died serving. Read my 2017 Veterans Day article to learn more about the differences by clicking HERE.

I felt proud to have served in the US Army for 27 plus years.  I'm honored that I was asked to host a promotion ceremony in December 2017 and a retirement ceremony in September 2018.  The fact that I can still fit into my uniform is nothing short of a miracle after being retired for three years.  In all seriousness, it's indeed an honor to wear my uniform properly.  

 Happy Veterans Day to all who've served!

Pictured left to right: Master Sergeant Retired Maria Ferrand-Johnson and Colonel Retired Angela M. Odom. This picture was taken on September 15, 2018 during MSG Ferrand-Johnson's retirement ceremony.  

Pictured Left to Right:  Master Sergeant Retired Patricia Ortiz, Colonel Retired Angela M. Odom, and Major Robbie Wilson on December 22, 2017 prior to his military promotion ceremony to Major.  

This picture of my son was taken as he and 15th Personnel Services Battalion family members, friends and loved ones anxiously awaited our return from Iraq to Fort Hood, TX in January 2008 after a long and tumultuous 15 month tour.  Learn more about the Bronco Strong story by clicking HERE. 

Much love and respect to you and yours (I'm rooting for you)

Colonel Angela M. Odom, US Army Retired

Learn more about Angela HERE