Though its roots are in the anniversary of the end of World War I — Armistice Day — the holiday we observe Saturday has been meant since 1947 to honor all those who served their country in the military, in war or peacetime.

There are more than 16 million of them living in the U.S. today.

While its association with Armistice Day means the observance will always take place on the eleventh day of the eleventh month, many organizations plan ceremonies, parades or events to take place at 11 a.m. on that date.

Perhaps it is a nod to the idea that this is the eleventh hour — the last chance before it is too late — to honor those who were willing to serve and die for their country. We must not waste the opportunity to show those veterans our gratitude.

For some, the sacrifice turned out to be less than what was possible — they still served, knowing what might lie ahead.

For some, the sacrifice was life-long struggles with physical or mental health.

And for some, the sacrifice was ultimate.

They were all willing. They all gave what their country asked of them. In 2023, 1.4 million active-duty service members are still willing.

Some organizations and businesses will offer free meals to veterans or hold solemn observances to reflect on their service. Some community leaders will visit veterans in their homes and provide gifts and other small tokens of appreciation.

Spend a moment Saturday thinking about what that willingness has meant for you and your family. If you are not a veteran, think about whether you would have been capable of doing the same.

They deserve far better than the passing reflection they are granted on one or two days per year, but at least on Veterans Day we can give them that.

“Honor to the soldier and sailor everywhere who bravely bears his country’s cause.”

— Abraham Lincoln, 1863