7th Infantry Division Supports Local Veterans Day Gatherings | Article

Joint Base Lewis-McChord and the surrounding Puget Sound region have a deeply connected relationship, strengthened by a shared sense of duty and mutual support. Of the area’s 2.5 million residents, more than 350,000 are either active duty service members or veterans, underscoring the military’s significant local presence.

The nearby communities provide important resources, jobs and support networks for service members and their families.

While support and celebration of service members, veterans and their families are celebrated throughout the year, one day takes on extra importance, Veterans Day.

Veterans Day began as Armistice Day on November 11, 1919, which marked the first anniversary of the end of World War I. Originally dedicated to honoring veterans of World War I, it became a federal holiday in 1938. After World War II and the Korean War, Congress renamed it Veterans Day in 1954 to recognize the service and sacrifices of all American veterans.

“Today I reminded the students about the veterans and the importance of their service,” said Bonnie Hauschka, assistant principal of Washington Middle School. On Veterans Day, the school publicly honors the men and women who have served the country by remembering their sacrifices and putting the values ​​of freedom and liberty first.

Today, November 11th stands as a tribute to the bravery and dedication of those who have defended freedom and peace. The 7th Infantry Division, known for its commitment to service, has a tradition of honoring veterans by participating in local Veterans Day gatherings. Each year, soldiers from the division volunteer to speak at schools, community centers and public ceremonies, sharing personal experiences and reflecting on the meaning of military service.

“Why do we have a Veterans Day?” said Lt. Col. Patrick Nordahl, 7th Infantry Division senior intelligence officer, who spoke to students at WMS during a Veterans Day assembly. “It honors the trust that equals the military to defend and protect us. Veterans Day honors all veterans.”

These gatherings allow soldiers to connect with the community, inspire future generations and pay tribute to those who served before them. By telling stories of resilience and sacrifice, the soldiers emphasize the values ​​that the military upholds and the importance of supporting veterans year-round.

“Veterans Day is meant to honor those who have served and continue to serve,” said Abuoh Neufville, who is a retired command sergeant major and currently assistant director of Washington Veteran Services. “I do this today and every day by helping the veterans in this community.”

In addition to speaking engagements, the 7th Infantry Division contributes to Veterans Day through ceremonial activities. From color guard presentations to helping with wreath-laying ceremonies, the soldiers show respect for the traditions and sacrifices of previous generations.

“No two veterans’ stories are the same,” said Beth Cram, who is a former sergeant and currently works in human resources at the Washington State Veterans Employee Group. “It is our responsibility to ensure that everyone has a voice and is never left out.”

The goal of these events is to help promote unity between the military and civilian communities, and reinforce a shared commitment to honoring those who served. Through their participation, the 7th Infantry Division not only celebrates Veterans Day, but also strengthens the bonds of community, ensuring that the legacy of service and sacrifice remains a lasting part of American life.

While traditions may vary, the focus of Veterans Day remains the same: to honor the brave men and women who served and sacrificed for the country.

“Veterans Day is a day when I stop and reflect on everyone who has come before me,” said Staff Sgt. Josua Minchew, a fourth-generation veteran and intelligence analyst with the 7th Infantry Division Color Guard. “I take a few moments to think of all those who have sacrificed before me so that I can pave the way for the future.”

Veterans Day reminds the nation of the debt owed to those who put themselves at risk for freedom and safety. Regardless of how it is observed, the day centers on gratitude and respect for veterans, recognizing their lasting contributions to the nation.

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