Wing commander sends Veteran's Day message Published Nov. 10, 2015 By Col. Keith Wesley 934th Airlift Wing commander 11/10/2015 - MINNEAPOLIS-ST PAUL AIR RESERVE STATION -- In 1918 at the 11th hour on the 11th day of the 11th month, World War I informally ended as an armistice with Germany went into effect. Generally regarded as the end of "the war to end all wars," what now is referred to as Veteran's Day was officially recognized the following year as President Woodrow Wilson proclaimed: "To us in America, the reflections of Armistice Day will be filled with solemn pride in the heroism of those who died in the country's service and with gratitude for the victory, both because of the thing from which it has freed us and because of the opportunity it has given America to show her sympathy with peace and justice in the councils of the nations." On June 1, 1954, Armistice Day, approved by legislation, was declared Veteran's Day, a day to honor veterans of all wars. As we celebrate Veteran's Day, it is with great honor and humble pride that we recognize the Airmen, Soldiers, Sailors, Marines and Coast Guardsmen who have both served and continue to serve. Fulfilling a call that so few answer, these men and women have sacrificed, in both peace and war, to protect our great nation and the American way of life. Today, more than 100 Airmen from the 934th Airlift Wing are deployed beyond our borders securing the freedom that America holds near and dear. Our sons and daughters continue to answer the call to support and defend our nation by serving around the globe wherever and whenever needed. Please join me in celebrating their honorable service and sacrifice. To every veteran past, present and future and to every service member today, I thank you for your service and I salute you!