President Woodrow Wilson issued the order marking the first Veterans Day, which coincides with the anniversary of the end of World War I. Major hostilities of World War I were formally ended at the 11th hour of the 11th day of the 11th month of 1918.
While I never served in the armed forces, my two grandfathers served in World War II. Pictured below is one of my grandfathers, Virgil Smith.
Growing up, I never knew that both of my grandfathers served; I just knew them as Papa Jack and Papa Virgil. One would take me fishing and the other owned a roller skating rink where I could go and skate, play video games and eat as much junk food as possible – heaven for a young boy.
It struck me later in life that there was a whole part of their lives I didn't see as a young child. They'd served our country and sacrificed for their families, friends and communities. I know many of you who walk our hallways have also made this sacrifice - and given more than we could ever comprehend.
We have patients who come to our clinics and hospitals who have a lot going on in the background we never see. Maybe they served our country; maybe they made a sacrifice they carry with them daily. We don't know their history, or even the small obstacles they had to overcome to prepare for a surgery or procedure.
What encourages me is seeing a similar spirit of self-sacrifice in each and every one of you on a daily basis - and even more lately - to compassionately care for each patient. You take ownership of the ability to serve our fellow person, even in the most difficult times, wearing a mask and eye protection.
For this, I want to thank you for your commitment to serving others. And on this Veterans Day, I also want to thank each of you who have served in our United States Armed Forces.
Talk soon,
Jason
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