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As we honor Veterans Day, it’s important to pause and reflect on the history of this day and what it means. President Woodrow Wilson declared November 11 as the first commemoration of the armistice (stopping of ‘hostilities’) of World War I. It became a legal holiday in 1938 and transitioned to Veterans Day in 1954.
You may be surprised to learn that Louisville Water’s work with the Armed Forces also dates back to the early 1900’s. During World War I, Camp Zachary Taylor was built in Louisville to train soldiers. It was chosen because of the high-quality water in the area. In World War II, we had as many as 41 employees away to serve; women began to take on more jobs at the utility, like Blanche Quinn, who became Louisville Water’s first cashier. We also donated tons of metal scrap for the war effort and supported Victory Gardens to help with food shortages.
Today, Louisville Water is proud to support our veterans. Our company’s workforce includes 27 self-identifying veterans, some of whom continue to serve in the reserves. Veterans Day is about honoring all veterans for their service, the sacrifices they made and continue to make, and a chance to thank military families for their support and sacrifices.
Last Friday, Louisville Water and MSD hosted the 20th annual recognition breakfast. The program included a moving ceremony performed by MSD’s Color Guard, speeches filled with gratitude, and a gift to each veteran- a medal displaying the military branch in which they served.
“This is a small way to show our deep appreciation for their dedication and service to our country and Louisville Water and MSD,” said Spencer Bruce, President & CEO of Louisville Water.
MSD Executive Director Tony Parrott thanked the veterans for serving our community and the work they do every day, “providing great drinking water and maintaining safe, clean waterways.” He added, “Bringing veterans from both companies together is a symbol of our One Water partnership.”
The common bond of serving our country is what brought Louisville Water Plant Maintenance Mechanic Daryl Randall to Friday’s breakfast.
“I thought it was important to help support fellow veterans who have served,” said Randall, who served in the U.S. Army.
Louisville Water also participated in the city’s Veterans Day parade on Saturday along with many other groups and organizations. It’s important we honor our veterans for their service, remember the ones who did not return home, and thank all of them for protecting us and the freedoms we enjoy every day.
