To the Editor:

Show respect for all veterans on Veterans Day, Nov. 11. What does it really mean for the hearts of those who wait for those to return as we honor and and remember all who stood in line of duty for our country with courage during war? We honor and respect them in every city and state.

As often as I have written of Veterans Day, I think of those who do not know the reason or understand the meaning of our country honoring veterans on this day.

As this day unfolds, the flying of the red, white and blue Old Glory honors of all of our veteran — men and women — who stood and served for a cause. As we read different stories about our veterans and those we lost through all the years of war, just stop and think. Families and friends were keeping the faith along with letters of hope and love from loved ones were the only contact of having a home to come back to. And as we read of many stories of war, we need to stop and listen. What did it take for one to go to war for our country? I think of those I know on this day and, as I write to share my reason for respecting Veterans Day, it is the courage of those — from generation to generation— who answered the call of duty.

Maybe the reason why I write can be found in this rock and plaque in my neighborhood. It sits in an area surrounded by a wood frame like a picture far away in the distance.

It sits high and often so persons would stop and read the plaque throughout the year. It has a meaning that can touch the hearts of those who take a little time read.

On the Veterans Memorial Walkway along the bike path of the 500 block of South Columbus and Wilkes Street sits this rock with a plaque that reads as follows: “Dedicated to the City of Alexandria and Alexandria's Veterans' Organizations on Veterans Day, Nov. 11, 1979, in honored memory of the deceased Alexandria Veterans of all the United States wars. Their service in war and peace contributed greatly to the welfare of their fellow citizens. Charles E. Beatley, Jr., Mayor; Robert L. Calhoun, Vice Mayor; Donald C. Casey, Councilman; Margaret B. Inman, Councilwoman; Nelson E. Greene, Sr., Councilman; James P. Moran, Jr., Councilman; Carlyle C. Ring, Jr., Councilman.

“In honor of all our veterans and men and women in uniform who have served and fought for our country, let them not be forgotten.”     

Geri Baldwin

Community Activist

Alexandria