Emporia, Kansas, declared the founding city

Veterans Day began its existence as Armistice Day, honoring those who served in World War I. But a shoe repairman in Emporia, Kansas, Al King, led a drive to honor all servicemen including those who served in war and in peace. King had been too young to serve in World War I, although it is said he did try to join the Navy near the end of the war but he was only 15.

King had been actively involved with American War Dads during World War II. He and his wife, Gertrude, helped raise their young nephew, John Cooper. Cooper, who served as part of the Third U.S. Army in Germany, was killed in action on Dec. 20, 1944. That started AlÕs quest.

The Emporia Chamber of Commerce backed King after determining that 90 percent of Emporia merchants and the Board of Education supported closing their doors on Nov. 11. King was named general chairman of an All Veterans Day Committee that included representatives from VFW, American Legion, War Dads and AMVETS. King also contacted a U.S. Representative from Emporia, Ed Rees, to help him with his idea. President Eisenhower signed the bill that established Veterans Day as a national holiday.

The first Veterans Day was held on Nov. 11, 1954.On Oct. 31, 2003, Congress declared Emporia the Official Founding City of Veterans Day.

Though Veterans Day was once moved to the 4th Monday in November, the official celebration is again Nov. 11. It is often filled with parades and galas. The veterans celebrate joyfully.

What matters most is the honor given to those who have served their country through good times and bad. They truly make this the land of the free and the home of the brave.