One hundred seven years ago, fighting in “The Great War”—World War I—ceased with an agreement between the Allied Nations and Germany at the 11th hour on the 11th day of the 11th month. That pact essentially ended what the world hoped had been “the war to end all wars.” One year later, on November 11, America observed the first Armistice Day, a day to honor those who served in WWI and to consider the costs of peace.
Unfortunately, two more wars soon took place, with World War II requiring the greatest mobilization of troops by land, air, and sea in United States history and American forces fighting conflict in Korea. On June 1, 1954, Congress renamed Armistice Day as Veterans Day to honor American veterans of all wars each November 11.
Veterans Day is not just a calendar date or a day off, however. The day reminds us of the courage and selflessness distinguishing those who have worn the uniforms of our Nation’s armed forces. They stepped forth to do their duty and defended the ideals we Americans hold dear, often at great personal cost and sacrifice. Their service and the sacrifices they and their loved ones endured have kept us safe and ensured we can live, work, and flourish in freedom. We at Hancock Whitney express our profoundly heartfelt gratitude to these heroes.
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Welcome Home. Soldiers return home to Bay St. Louis, Mississippi, at the end of World War I. The end of that war marked the beginning of what became today’s Veterans Day. The Old Town Bay St. Louis Hancock Whitney branch, opened in 1900 and still operating today, is visible to the far left. |
At Hancock Whitney, we’re proud to count many veterans among our clients, associates, and business partners—the people who make up our Hancock Whitney family. Their service to our Nation and dedication to helping our communities and our company thrive together reflect the core values forming the foundation of our country and the cornerstone of our organization: Honor & Integrity, Strength & Stability, Commitment to Service, Teamwork, and Personal Responsibility.
Since our founding more than 125 years ago, our organization has remained committed to creating opportunities for those who have served and supporting those actively serving in America’s military. Whether helping WWI veterans reenter civilian society, promoting war bonds to keep our military strong, extending bank hours for service members and their families, or opening bank branches at government installations, we’ve believed from the beginning in helping those who served or serve to sustain a strong, safe United States of America for all of us. This Veterans Day, I hope each of us has a chance to express appreciation to the veterans in our lives for their service and sacrifice. We should all make concerted efforts to include them in activities and events saluting them. A simple thank you and a caring gesture can be priceless.
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Saluting Service. Battleship Memorial Park on Mobile Bay in Alabama pays tribute to American veterans of all wars. In 1954, Congress renamed Armistice Day, which honored those who served in World War I, as Veterans Day to honor all American veterans, regardless of when and where they served. |
We at Hancock Whitney know that freedom is not free, nor should liberty ever be taken lightly. To those in our communities and our Hancock Whitney family who have served to keep the Red, White, and Blue bright, we say thank you. You inspire us by example to stand strong for what’s right, to act with purpose and focus for the common good, and to support each other with the same unity defining the best of military service.
May all of us carry that great American spirit forward in all we do.