On November 11, 1919, which was actually the first anniversary of the end of World War I, Armistice Day was born. The name was eventually changed to Veterans Day and became a recognized national holiday in 1938. Understandably, there is often confusion between Memorial Day and Veterans Day, but the two are quite different.
Memorial Day is observed in honor of those who have passed on; all of our loved ones including those who have served in the military. Veteran’s Day is a tribute to those military men and women who have died, as well as those who are living; whether they have retired or are still serving the United States of America.
We are informed that our beloved country appears weak in the eyes of the world. The leaders of this nation seem to be at war with each other and consequently we have lost a great deal of our credibility and our forefathers’ dream of democracy is tainted with rumors of corruption, greed, and instability. The eyes of the world are often not privy to the heart of America; the farmer, teacher, laborer; many of them proud veterans who have never questioned this nation’s strength and integrity. These are men and women who continue to devote their lives to the preservation of American values and freedom.
One such veteran is James Chico Hernandez, a United States Army veteran who served from 1981 until 2014, obtaining the rank of First Sergeant during his military career. He is a veteran of the Cold War, serving with great honor during the war eras of the 1982 Lebanon War, Operation Urgent Fury (Grenada), the Gulf War (Desert Shield, Desert Storm, Operation Enduring Freedom, Operation Iraqi Freedom) and the war on terrorism.
During his U.S. Army career, 1st Sgt. Hernandez was awarded the Physical Fitness Badge of Excellence a total of 26 times. In 2003, he received a Challenge Coin for “Superior Performance as an Instructor” at West Point.
Hernandez has numerous other outstanding accomplishments, including as three-time Fort Riley Big Red 1st Division Wrestling Champion and 1983 All-Army wrestling team member. Also in 1983, he graduated from the Premier class of the Soldier Physical Fitness Academy at Fort Benjamin, Harrison, Indiana as a Master Fitness Trainer. Presently, Hernandez works at the Caribou School Department as a head varsity wrestling coach, assistant track and field coach, and substitute teacher, to name a few. My friends, Hernandez has even been featured on a box of Wheaties cereal! His accomplishments and his contributions to our country are endless.
James Chico Hernandez is a superior example of American devotion and heroism. Within our own community are many such veterans; both men and women. Some of these outstanding citizens are officers within the National Guard, VFW, American Legion, Ladies’ Auxiliary, Gold Star Mothers, Freedom Riders, and many others I have not listed here. Many of our veterans can be found raising money for various causes and generously volunteering their time without hesitation.
These veterans — these patriots — are a national treasure. They are the core of America and the beating heart that keeps this country upright during the darkest night. They are the reason we continue to be the most revered country in the world; despite indisputable faults and transgressions.
At this very moment, our country is in turmoil and in the midst of another sort of war; a war that will test our power, our stamina, and our faith. On this Veterans Day, we must look beyond the flaws of this great nation and celebrate those lives, both past and present, devoted to the preservation of freedom and justice.
Please take the time to thank a veteran for their service and ask them about their military career. When and where did they serve? What were their responsibilities? What are they doing now?
We may not agree with the concept of war, but as Americans, we need to recognize the sacrifice, devotion, courage, and commitment that have allowed us to flourish. Thank you, 1st Sgt. Hernandez and the millions of other veterans who have willingly dedicated their lives to this dear country; our United States of America.
Belinda Wilcox Ouellette lives in Connor with her husband, Dale, and their Goldendoodle, Barney Rubble. You may contact Belinda online at dbwouellette@maine.rr.com.
