While it is a three day weekend for most, we must not forget the real reason we celebrate Veterans Day.

Formerly known as Armistice Day, Veterans Day was originally set as a U.S. legal holiday to honor the end of World War I, which took place on Nov. 11, 1918.

In 1954, after having been through both World War II and the Korean War, the 83rd U.S. Congress — at the urging of the veterans service organizations — amended the Act of 1938 by striking out the word “Armistice” and inserting the word “Veterans.” With the approval of this legislation on June 1, 1954, Nov. 11 became a day to honor American veterans of all wars.

One hundred years later, we still remember this time as a time to celebrate those who have served in the military.

As we take this extended weekend and make plans with friends and family let’s not forget the reason that we have this time.

The American Post Legion will hold their annual Veterans Day service on Monday, Nov. 12 at 11 a.m. at the Farmer’s Market pavilion at Bloch Park in Selma.

We encourage everyone to attend and to remember why we celebrate.