Col. (R) William M. Alexander, now 2ID/RUCD Museum director, spoke to those gathered about the importance and history of the day and about the importance of honoring those who have served in the armed services.

“The word ‘Veteran’ shines brightly when it is dedicated to the Warriors who are currently serving or have served in the military,” said Alexander. “The peace, prosperity and power of the United States and the Republic of Korea are established through the sacrifice of our military.”

Alexander said there are more than 21.8 million living veterans in the U.S. and more than 2.3 million living Korean and American veterans in South Korea.
“These living veterans are the example of the bravery and strength for the members if the military serving today,” said Alexander.

Alexander talked about three different veterans and the service they gave to their countries: Ronald Rosser, a 2nd Infantry Division Medal of Honor recipient and Korean War veteran, Lt. Col. (R) Kim, Sun-Tae, a 29 year veteran of the ROK Army, and John Clement, 20 year U.S. Army veteran who works in the division signal operations office.

“If we take a look around us today, there are people with different backgrounds both in and out of uniform. Even though some may not wear military uniforms anymore, part of their lives were spent in uniform,” said Alexander. “The word veteran is the best way to describe them and their lives. Let us not forget the importance of the correct use of the word ‘veteran’ on Veterans Day.”

President Woodrow Wilson established Veterans Day, originally known as Armistice Day, on November 11, 1919. Wilson chose that day because World War I ended when the fighting officially stopped at the 11th hour of the 11th day of the 11th month of 1918.