As Veterans Day approaches, it is essential to reflect on the history, significance, and profound meaning of this day. One way to honor our Veterans is attending the upcoming Biddeford Saco Veterans Day Ceremony and Parade, as it unites our communities in paying tribute to those who have selflessly served in our military.

Veterans Day, observed annually on November 11th, has a rich historical legacy. Originally known as Armistice Day, it was established to commemorate the end of World War I, which took place on November 11, 1918. In 1954, at the urging of many Veterans service organizations and in the aftermath of World War II, the name was officially changed to Veterans Day to honor all U.S. military Veterans, past and present.

This observance, akin to Remembrance Day in other nations, particularly those in the Commonwealth of Nations like the United Kingdom, Canada, and South Africa, pays tribute to the sacrifices made by Veterans. In the United States, the Veterans Day Moment of Silence Act, signed into law in 2016, encourages a national moment of silence at 2:11 p.m. Eastern Standard Time on Nov. 11 to honor our Veterans and reflect on their service.

Veterans Day holds deep significance as a day to express our nation’s gratitude and respect for the brave men and women who have served in the military. It is a day to acknowledge their sacrifices and commitment to defending our nation's freedoms, often at great personal cost. Veterans Day reminds us of the debt of gratitude we owe to those who have selflessly served our country.

Furthermore, it serves as a solemn reminder of the sacrifices made by our Veterans, not just on the battlefield, but throughout their lives. These individuals have placed their country above all else, and Veterans Day is an opportunity for us to pay tribute to their service and unwavering dedication. In Maine, Veterans account for 9.7% of the state’s population, the fifth highest percentage among the 50 states.

As part of this year’s Veterans Day commemoration, the Biddeford Saco community joins together for a ceremony and parade to honor our Veterans. The parade, scheduled for Saturday, Nov. 11, will commence at 10 a.m. in Biddeford at the corner of Pool and Alfred streets. It will then proceed  down Alfred Street to Main Street, cross the bridge into Saco's York Hill, continue through Saco's Main Street, turn right on Beach St, and conclude at CK Burns School. The closing ceremony will occur at CK Burns School at approximately 10:45 a.m.

The ceremony and parade will feature key figures and elements, including Master of Ceremony Roger Beaupre, Grand Marshal Nathan Johnston, Guest Speaker Paul Gagne, Youth Reader and Girl Scout Milan Vire reading "In Flanders Fields," Chaplain Scott Cousineau from First Parish Congregation, Flag Raising by Massabesic NJROTC Cadets, and the National Anthem performed by the Seacoast Band of Biddeford, Old Orchard Beach, and Thornton Academy.

In essence, the Biddeford Saco Ceremony & Parade provides our community with a meaningful opportunity to come together and demonstrate our deep appreciation for the service and sacrifices of our Veterans. It serves as a powerful symbol of our respect for those who have safeguarded our liberties and defended freedoms.

Reflecting on the moving words of Air Force Veteran Colonel Jen Fullmer from last year's Veteran's Day ceremony, she aptly reminded us to go beyond mere words of gratitude:

"Shake a Veteran's hand today, look them in the eye, give them a heartfelt thank you. I encourage you to take it one step further and think about why you are saying thank you. Take a minute to think about the freedoms that we take for granted every day and what it would be like if we did not have the right to vote, if we did not have the freedom to speak freely, or if our children did not have the right to go to school. Take a moment to think about how you can thank and honor our Veterans by fulfilling your civic duties, encouraging others to serve, and paying it forward."

To conclude, let us remember that honoring our Veterans goes beyond a single day of commemoration—it is a lifelong commitment to upholding the values and freedoms they have so selflessly defended.

Following the parade, the Amvets Post 1 in Biddeford is hosting a free Ham Dinner at 147 Alfred Street. All are welcome. For more information about the Veterans Day Ceremony & Parade in Biddeford Saco, visit the Heart of Biddeford website.

Liam LaFountain is a first-term City Councilor in Biddeford and a healthcare analyst at the non-profit Healthcare Purchaser Alliance. He welcomes questions, comments, and ideas and can be contacted directly at liam.lafountain@biddefordmaine.org.

The views and opinions herein are solely those of the author and do not necessarily reflect the viewpoints and opinions of Saco Bay News, its employees, publisher, or advertisers.