Speaking at the dedication of the monument to First Division’s heroic service in World War, President Coolidge offered this sentiment for all of America’s armed forces, be it the “Big Red One,” the “Yankee Division” (26th), the “Rainbow Division” (42nd), the “Blue Helmet Division” (93rd), the Battle Squadrons and Divisions in both the Atlantic and Pacific Fleets, especially ensuring 2.8 million Americans in uniform took part in operations across Europe, the vital role of the U. S. Army Air Service and Signal Corps, and the critical contributions of the Fourth and Fifth Marine Brigades, not to mention those stationed literally around the world:

Every unit…whether at home or abroad, richly merits its own full measure of recognition. They shrank from no toil, no danger, and no hardship, that the liberties of our country might adequately be defended and preserved. We raise monuments to testify to the honor in which we hold men for the work they have done, and to be a constant reminder to ourselves and future generations of the lessons their actions have taught us…

“It cannot be measured in money. How poor and cheap and unworthy would be that attitude which could say: ‘You have offered your life. Here is your dollar. That discharges the debt. Take it and go.’ The nation recognizes towards them all a debt which it can never repay, but which it will never repudiate. Standing to their credit will forever be an inexhaustible balance of gratitude, of honor, and of praise. In song and story, in monument and memorial, in tradition and history, they will live in the heart of the people forever more.”

Happy Armistice Day and thank you, veterans, for all you have risked for a far greater purpose!