On Monday, we honored those who fought for this country — those who are still with us and those who have passed on. It is important to take time this Veterans Day and not only thank those who risk their lives, but also to reflect on what they risked their lives for.

According to the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs, Veterans Day began during the aftermath of the war to end all wars — World War I and coincided with Armistice Day. After World War II it officially became Veterans Day, a day to honor those who fought in all wars.