Holiday observances

Ninety-one years ago yesterday, in the 11th hour of the 11th day of the 11th month, the Allied powers and Germany signed an armistice that ended The Great War. As history proved, the War to End All Wars failed miserably in that regard. Rather, World War I served as a great political and technological catalyst for global and regional wars that continued through much of the 20th century and into the 21st.

Today, there are few visible ties to the roots of Armistice Day, which became Veterans Day in 1947. More troubling in 2009 are the even fewer signs of societal reverence and gratitude for those whose service laid and continues to lay the foundation for the freedoms and way of life we enjoy.

Oh, we Americans observe Veterans Day all right. In honor of those who fought and died on the battlefields of Valley Forge, Gettysburg, Verdun, Normandy, Inchon, Khe Sanh and Fallujah, we offer 20 percent off women's peep-toe pumps, available in 12 colors.

That sound emanating from Arlington National Cemetery is Black Jack Pershing rolling over in his grave.

For all those who served, and who continue to serve, our simple thanks.

Mike Hughes

Raleigh

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