Wednesday marks the 97th anniversary of Armistice Day - the day the fighting of World War I, the "war to end all wars," ended.
The war itself didn't end officially until June 28, 1919, when the Treaty of Versailles was signed at the Palace of Versailles in France.
However, since fighting ended between the Axis and Allies forces on "the 11th hour of the 11th day of the 11th month," Nov. 11, 1918, generally is regarded as the end of the war.
The U.S. Veterans Affairs department notes on its history website that President Woodrow Wilson in 1919 proclaimed Nov. 11 as the first commemoration of Armistice Day, saying: "To us in America, the reflections of Armistice Day will be filled with solemn pride in the heroism of those who died in the country's service and with gratitude for the victory, both because of the thing from which it has freed us and because of the opportunity it has given America to show her sympathy with peace and justice in the councils of the nations ... "
The celebrations continued each year.
However, then World War II came along, with its major mobilizations in opposite parts of the world.
Then it was followed by the Korean War and, in 1954, Congress changed the observance of "Armistice" Day to "Veterans" Day, honoring those who are veterans of all wars.
Here's a list of some of the events occurring in the Jefferson City area this Nov. 11:
• 7:30 a.m. - Lincoln University Scruggs University Center (and 9 a.m., Soldiers Hall)
Parking is available in the Collier-Hatcher-Parks lot at the northwest corner of Atchison and Chestnut streets.
A free continental breakfast will be served as LU recognizes area veterans, holds a tribute to fallen comrades and hears remarks from Missouri Adjutant Gen. Steve Danner.
That program will be followed at 9 a.m. with the dedication of the Blue Star Memorial "By-Way Marker" at Soldiers Hall, 903 Lafayette St.
The Capital Garden Club maintains the site.
The program also will honor all men and and women who have served, or currently are serving, in the U.S. Armed Services.
Danner also will speak at that event.
• 8:30 a.m. - St. Peter Catholic Church
Msgr. Don Lammers, now pastor at Sacred Heart Catholic Church, Eldon, will celebrate the annual Mass to honor and remember the men and women who died serving the country.
Lammers served in the Army from 1953-55, then began his seminary training and was ordained as a priest in March 1966. He previously has served as pastor of parishes in Jefferson City (including St. Peter Church), Rich Fountain, Meta and Salisbury, and has served as diocesan director of Religious Education for seven years and Ministry for Priests for five years.
Combined choirs from St. Peter Church and St. Joseph Cathedral, directed by Lisa Fender, will provide the music.
Members of the Knights of Columbus will be the Honor Guard.
Representatives of the Highway Patrol, Jefferson City Police and Cole County Sheriff's departments will present the gifts for the Mass.
Color guard units from all veterans organizations and auxiliaries will be a part of the ceremony, and the Marine Corps League's Samuel F. Gearhart Detachment will fire the three-volley rifle salute at the end of the service.
• 9 a.m. - Russellville High School annual Veterans Day Assembly
Following a ceremony honoring veterans, Jeremy P. Amick, author of numerous newspaper articles and books chronicling the service and sacrifice of United States veterans - past and present - will be the keynote speaker.
He's a veteran of the Army and Missouri National Guard and has dedicated countless hours to recognizing fellow veterans as part of his volunteer work with the Silver Star Families of America.
• 9:30 a.m. - Veterans Tribute at Freedom Corner, corner of East High and East McCarty streets
Speakers include: Dave Griffith, a Vietnam veteran and director of the Heart of Missouri Red Cross Chapter; Don Koonce, Missouri Army National Guard lieutenant colonel (retired); and Lincoln University ROTC Cadet Natalia Pomales-Rivera.
Students from Lewis and Clark Middle School, East and Immaculate Conception elementary schools, Helias Catholic and Jefferson City High Schools, and Lincoln University also are among the program participants.
• 11 a.m. - Jefferson City Veterans Council Veterans Day program, Capitol Rotunda
The keynote speaker will be Charles Goodin, past State Commander of the American Legion and an active member of local American Legion Post 5, where he has held most positions.
Council chairman Don Hentges will be master of ceremonies, and Nicole Slusser, Department of Missouri VFW office manager, will be the singer.
Post 5's Color Guard will present the colors and the Veterans of Foreign Wars Post 1003 will do the Memorial Firing and Taps.