This year, I have been honored to work with a number of active and retired servicemen and their families. When I think about the sacrifice and service to our country, I am thankful to each and every person who has done so.

2009 marks the 90th anniversary of Veterans Day (formerly Armistice Day). On November 11, 1919, President Woodrow Wilson declared November 11 Armistice Day to commemorate the end of World War I at 11 a.m. on Nov. 11, 1918. On May 13, 1938 Congress passed an act to make Armistice Day a legal observance and, in 1954, the name was changed to Veterans Day. An interesting tidbit to note is that due to the timing and date of the end of WWI, we honor our veterans at 11 am on the 11th day of the 11th month each year.

Baltimore County government offices will be closed in honor of our veterans. My challenge to you is to find a veteran or active serviceperson and THANK THEM!