On Aug. 4, I was honored to help celebrate “Spirit of ’45 Day” at the Voorhees Care and Rehabilitation Center. The day was a national effort to salute those who served in uniform and on the home front, pay tribute to those who gave the ultimate sacrifice, and mobilize all Americans and future generations to carry on the legacy of national unity and commitment to service of the World War II generation. A Proclamation was presented declaring Aug. 4, 2014 as “Spirit of ’45 Day” in Voorhees.
On August 11, 1945, the people of the United States received word of the end of World War II and greeted the news of the Allies’ noble victory with joyous celebration, humility, and spiritual reflection. The victory marked the culmination of an unprecedented national effort that defeated the forces of aggression, brought freedom to subjugated nations, and ended the horrors of the Holocaust.
These historic accomplishments were achieved through the collective service and personal sacrifice of the people of the United States, both those who served in uniform and those who supported them on the Home-Front, and the nearly 300,000 Americans who gave their lives in service to their country during World War II.
August 11, 1945, marked not only the end of the war but also the beginning of an unprecedented era of rebuilding led by the United States to restore the societies of both our allies and former foes alike, and the formation of an array of organizations and institutions which helped to strengthen American democracy by promoting civic engagement, volunteerism and service to community and country.
The courage, dedication, self-sacrifice, and compassion of the “ordinary heroes” of the World War II generation continue to inspire our nation, especially the men and women who are currently protecting our country around the world.
The entire World War II generation, military and civilian alike, has provided a model of national unity and community that will continue to serve as a source of inspiration for current and future generations of Americans to come together to work for the continued prosperity of the United States and the world.
Voorhees Township will be honoring not only those who served in World War II, but all who have worn the uniform of the United States Military with our Veterans Wall of Honor to be unveiled in a ceremony at Town Hall on Oct. 20 at 6:30 p.m. We already have over 200 honorees for the Wall.
We will always be thankful to those who protected our freedom!
