It comes around once a year — a day dedicated solely to veterans. These are men and women who have served their country in some capacity, oftentimes risking their own lives.

Formerly known as Armistice Day following World War I, the federal holiday was renamed Veterans Day in 1954 following World War II. Since the late 1970s, it has been celebrated every year on Nov. 11, regardless of which day of the week the date falls.

According to the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs, the day is meant to be “a celebration to honor America’s veterans for their patriotism, love of country and willingness to serve and sacrifice for the common good.”

Though much has changed since Veterans Day was first adopted, the fact remains that there are still veterans who need our support and who deserve our thanks.

Whether it be the remaining World War II veterans, the veterans from the Vietnam War, the veterans from the Iraq War or any others, we thank you.

Take a moment and honor the veterans in our community through the ceremony on Saturday or some other means. Then take a moment to remember all of the freedoms we possess living in this country.

These are freedoms these veterans fought to protect.