As Americans commemorate Veteran’s Day, an important time to be grateful for the military, the sacrifices they make, the protection they provide and the freedom they secure, we cannot neglect the critical role of the man whose Feast Day coincides with this commemoration. St. Martin of Tours (France), the 4th Century Bishop and patron saint of soldiers is celebrated around the world on November 11th, the same day as Armistice Day, that was declared in 1918 to mark the end of World War I and in 1954 became Veterans Day in the U.S.
St. Martin was well known throughout Europe and venerated by soldiers especially in France by its warrior kings. Martin’s impact and those who sought his help in time of violent warfare impacted history and saved western Christendom.
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