Governor Hogan honors veterans at World War II Memorial

Today, on the 100th anniversary of the first recognized Armistice Day, Governor Larry Hogan delivered remarks honoring and celebrating Maryland’s veterans at the Maryland World War II Memorial in Annapolis.

Governor Hogan was joined by representatives from the Maryland Department of Veterans Affairs and the American Legion.

“Our veterans serve as a reminder—not just today, but every day—of the immeasurable cost of war and of the immense price of freedom,” said Governor Hogan. “On this Veterans Day, I ask each and every Marylander to set aside time to honor our veterans and their families. Raise the flag from your porch, ask a local hero about the story of their service, or simply take a moment to say thank you.”

Maryland is home to approximately 380,000 veterans, including 8,000 World War II veterans, and an additional 30,000 active duty military, 19,000 reservists, and more than 6,000 members of the National Guard.  

First established as Armistice Day in 1919, Veterans Day is celebrated each year at events across Maryland, many of which are hosted or supported by the Maryland Department of Veterans Affairs.

Earlier this year, Governor Hogan proclaimed 2019 as the Year of the Veteran in Maryland, beginning a yearlong observance to recognize the brave service and sacrifice our veterans and military families have made for Maryland and the nation.

Since taking office, Governor Hogan has been a strong advocate for Maryland’s veterans. The very first piece of legislation he enacted established March 30 as Welcome Home Vietnam Veterans Day in Maryland.

The Hogan administration also eliminated fees associated with veterans’ designation on driver’s licenses, disabled veteran vehicle plate registration, and Maryland state park admission.

Additionally, the governor was instrumental in bringing permanent supportive housing for homeless veterans to the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs Perry Point Medical Center Campus.