For Veteran's Day

Whereas the 11th of November 1918, marked the cessation of the most destructive, sanguinary, and far reaching war in human annals and the resumption by the people of the United States of peaceful relations with other nations, which we hope may never again be severed, and

Whereas it is fitting that the recurring anniversary of this date should be commemorated with thanksgiving and prayer and exercises designed to perpetuate peace through good will and mutual understanding between nations; and

Whereas the legislatures of twenty-seven of our States have already declared November 11 to be a legal holiday: Therefore be it Resolved by the Senate (the House of Representatives concurring), that the President of the United States is requested to issue a proclamation calling upon the officials to display the flag of the United States on all Government buildings on November 11 and inviting the people of the United States to observe the day in schools and churches, or other suitable places, with appropriate ceremonies of friendly relations with all other peoples.

It's not often remembered that Armistice Day, the precursor to Veteran's Day, was intended not only to memorialize the deaths of soldiers, but also to give voice to the hope that we would not wage war again. We have proven with ferocity that we are too much the brethren of the murderous chimpanzee to ever achieve that dream. We are, in fact, more horrific and violent and warlike than ever before, and evidently helpless to check this addiction to killing. This is a good moment to remember how pointless and empty continue to be the sacrifices we make of our young. So the homily today comes from a man who has seen more war that most warriors: Chris Hedges.