In November 1919, President Wilson proclaimed November 11 as the first commemoration of Armistice Day with the following words: "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…" In 1953 townspeople in Emporia, Kansas called the holiday Veterans' Day in gratitude to the veterans in their town. Soon after, Congress passed a bill introduced by a Kansas congressman renaming the federal holiday to Veterans' Day. In 1971, President Nixon declared it a federal holiday on the second Monday in November. Americans still give thanks on Veterans' Day and commemorate those living and lost in service. At 11:00 in the morning, some Americans observe a moment of silence, remembering those who fought for peace.
Watching the Fort Hood Memorial ceremony yesterday, I realized that I probably take for granted all that military personnel and their families do for this country every day. The choice to serve your country is the choice to put yourself in the line of fire from enemies both foreign and domestic 24/7/365. It's an enormous and unselfish sacrifice that I admire more and more each year. I could take this opportunity to talk about the woeful resources out there to address the various health and stress issues faced by these folks but instead I'll just show my appreciation.
So as you are enjoying your holiday (or just making it through another work day), stop and send up a good thought for the brave men and women in service to our nation. As for this cocktail, even I'm not brave enough to try this one but if you do… drink sensibly and enjoy!
An Army Ranger
Bacardi® 151 Rum ½ ounce
Red Bull® Energy Drink 8 oz can
Jagermeister® Herbal Liqueur 1 ounce
Blending Instructions:
Mix the Jagermeister herbal liqueur, Bacardi 151 rum and Red Bull energy drink in a mug or tall glass
Float a slice of both lime and lemon on top, and serve