This Veterans Day as we honor those who have served our country with valor and courage, let us also remember the peace that was forged on the USS Missouri in 1945 and fervently hope that our troubled world will work together to put peace ahead of war in the days and years ahead.

 

Our Veterans have given so much to preserve the principles of freedom & democracy set forth in our Declaration of Independence and Constitution. Their sacrifices have made possible a life of freedom & opportunity for generations of Americans.

 

Past President Tony's Newscast in late October gave much food for thought as he reflected on the signing of the Charter of the United Nations on October 23, 1945. He noted the shared history between the United Nations and Rotary International as they have worked together to achieve peace and address humanitarian needs around the world.

 

As our world today seems to teeter on the brink of expanded armed conflict, it's helpful to remember in 1945 Rotary was intrinsically involved in providing guidance to the creation of the UN Charter.  In 1945 delegations from 50 nations attended the United Nations Conference on International Organization held in San Francisco. Rotary International was one of 42 organizations the United States invited to serve as consultants to its delegation. Other Rotarians from Africa, Asia, Europe, and North & South America served as members of their own nations' delegations.  

 

Throughout 1945 RI kept local Rotarians informed about issues and developments related to the creation of the new organization we know as the United Nations. Today, Rotary holds the highest consultative status offered to a nongovernmental organization by the UN's Economic and Social Council, which oversees many specialized UN agencies.  Every year, there is a Rotary Day at the United Nations, celebrating the shared vision of RI and the UN for peace and highlighting the critical humanitarian activities in which they partner around the world.

 

As we honor our Veterans and thank them for their service and sacrifice, may we also continue to support Rotary's work in furthering harmony, collaboration and compassion among our world's nations to prevent further armed conflict throughout the world.