A Veteran's Day Message from Lt. Col. (Ret.) Soren Ashmall
December 31, 1969
Dear Fellow Veterans,
My brothers and sisters in arms: I am writing today on behalf of Capitol Technology University to celebrate your service and recognize your sacrifices to our great nation. All of us – active duty, reservist, and retired – have given so much to our country. We have prepared for, fought, and defeated our nation’s foes in "every clime and place" around the globe. And, as you know, our battles are not over; we are still fighting in Afghanistan and Iraq on this very day.
Each year on Veterans Day, I know many of us become uneasy. I am no different. My thoughts shift back to difficult battles, to ugly places and horrific events – things I can never forget. I can easily begin to mourn my fellow Marines, soldiers, sailors, airmen, and "Coasties" who did not come home alive. I can also become irritated or angry at those who just do not understand.
Today, however, I ask each of you to pause for a moment to recall what Veterans Day means, what it is supposed to mean, and why we are here – standing not only for ourselves, but also for our buddies who are now inside the Pearly Gates. Veterans Day is a time for our nation, and for each of us, to celebrate our time in uniform. It is a day when we are called to proudly remember the good times without diminishing the bad.
History reminds us that Veterans Day used to be called Armistice Day prior to 1954 in the United States. It is the day that marks the anniversary of the end of major hostilities in World War I. The official time on this day is when the clock strikes at the 11th hour on the 11th day of the 11th month. In 1918, the Armistice with Germany went into effect and the shooting stopped. It was then, and continues to be now, a time and a day to celebrate.
Those of us who have seen combat know that war is hell on earth – a place where we have literally walked through the Valley of Death, seen the face of evil, and survived. On this Veterans Day, I ask each of you to take a few moments to think about why all of us were chosen to survive. In my humble opinion, there are three primary reasons. I believe we are here to have each other’s backs and support each other. I feel we were selected to bear witness. And, last, but definitely not least, I believe we were chosen to celebrate our military traditions, esprit de corps, and unique bond.
In closing, I ask you to join our nation today in celebrating the long line of warriors who have served honorably and faithfully. I ask you to extend a hand to our brothers and sisters in arms, both young and old. I also ask you to answer the nation’s call again – this time as a survivor, a witness, and a teacher of all that represents the highest in military honor and distinction.
Semper Fidelis,
Professor Soren Ashmall
Lieutenant Colonel
United States Marine Corps (Ret.)