For listeners who tune in to On the Dock with Rick Smith expecting stories about fishing, boating, hunting, and life outdoors, Wednesday’s program took a thoughtful detour. In observance of Veterans Day, Smith set aside the usual discussions of tackle, tides, and hunting seasons to reflect on the history and meaning of a day dedicated to America’s military veterans.

“Be sure to thank them for their service,” Smith urged listeners, encouraging everyone to acknowledge veterans they encounter in everyday life, whether it’s a neighbor, a family member, or someone proudly wearing a cap representing a branch of service or a military conflict.

From Armistice Day to Veterans Day

Smith explained that Veterans Day originated as Armistice Day, commemorating the end of World War I. The conflict formally ended “at the 11th hour of the 11th day of the 11th month” in 1918 when the armistice with Germany took effect.

Recognizing the significance of that moment, President Woodrow Wilson issued a message to Americans in 1919 marking the first Armistice Day observance. Congress later adopted a resolution calling for annual observances, and in 1938, November 11 became a legal federal holiday dedicated to world peace and known as Armistice Day.

The holiday evolved following World War II, when Raymond Weeks of Birmingham, Alabama, advocated for a broader observance honoring all veterans, both living and deceased. His efforts gained support from General Dwight D. Eisenhower and led to the first National Veterans Day celebration in 1947. In 1954, President Eisenhower signed legislation officially renaming Armistice Day as Veterans Day.

Understanding the Difference

A key point of Smith’s discussion was clarifying the distinction between Veterans Day and Memorial Day, two holidays that are often confused.

Veterans Day honors all who have served in the United States Armed Forces. Memorial Day, observed in May, specifically honors those who died while serving in the military. Smith also noted that Armed Forces Day recognizes those currently serving in uniform.

The timing of Veterans Day places it just one day after the birthday of the United States Marine Corps, founded on November 10, 1775, making the period particularly meaningful for many Marines and their families.

Honoring Families, Too

Throughout the program, Smith emphasized that military service is rarely an individual effort.

“When one serves, the whole family serves,” he noted, recognizing the sacrifices made by military spouses and families during deployments, relocations, and long periods apart.

Across the country, Veterans Day is marked by parades, ceremonies, and the placement of American flags at veterans’ gravesites. These traditions serve as visible reminders of the men and women who answered the nation’s call to service.

A Message of Gratitude

Closing the special Veterans Day edition of On the Dock, Smith offered heartfelt thanks on behalf of Marine Outlet of Temple and the station to all veterans for their service and sacrifices.

While the program departed from its usual outdoor focus, the message resonated with the values that often define the boating, fishing, and hunting communities Smith serves: patriotism, duty, sacrifice, and appreciation for those who have served.

As Americans observed Veterans Day, listeners were reminded that gratitude is more than a once-a-year tradition. Sometimes it begins with a simple handshake, a kind word, or a sincere “thank you for your service.”

And with that, Smith signed off in familiar fashion:

“Clear horizons, fair winds, and tight lines.”