Sun, 12 Nov 2006

A Veteran

Josephine BakerToo often we Americans forget that Veterans Day (November 11th) was originally Armistice Day, commemorating the end of 'The War to End All Wars' on the 11th day of the 11th month in 1918. As such, it's celebrated throughout North America and Europe. And the lady in uniform pictured here holds something of a unique position - an American woman, honored for serving in a European army. Her name is Josephine Baker.

I've blogged about her before: the song quoted in that post described the magic she exuded on stage as a dancer and singer. But as an ex-pat, she also served in the French Resistance during the Second World War, and was recognized for her heroism by being awarded the Croix de Guerre. She also received the Medal of the Resistance with Rosette and was named a Chevalier of the Legion of Honor.

Quite a record for a lady who's primary claim to fame was song and dance. But illustrative of the ideal of the citizen soldier - the common men and women of any society who rise to the occasion when duty calls.

So here's a remembrance to those who have served - especially to those not called by government fiat or profession, but who knew their duty to their folk nonetheless, and honored it with distinction.

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