This Day in History, November 11, 1918: World War I Ends
On November 11, 1918 an armistice was signed between the Germans and the Allies, ending World War I.
ABMC SECRETARY MAX CLELAND: On this day in history, November 11th, 1918, the armistice was signed between the Axis and Allies ending the First World War.
The armistice was the culmination of a coordinated Allied offensive extending across the western front, a distance of more than 400 miles. Faced with this overwhelming advance, the Germans were driven back from the territory they had fought hard to acquire over four long years of war.
(Sounds of soldiers marching by)
ABMC SECRETARY MAX CLELAND:With the situation looking increasingly dire with every passing day, the Germans dispatched a diplomatic delegation to the front.
On the morning of November 11th in Compiègne, France, an armistice was reached between the Allies and Germany, declaring a cessation to hostilities on the western front effective the 11th hour, of the 11th of day, of the 11th month.
(Large crowd cheering/celebrating)
ABMC SECRETARY MAX CLELAND: Four years of intense fighting had cost all combatant nations dearly, and Allied soldiers and civilians alike rejoiced.
(Cheering continues)
ABMC SECRETARY MAX CLELAND:The signing of the Armistice on November 11th became a national holiday in the United States to honor those who served in the First World War, and helped bring it to a close.
(Celebrations continue followed by moment of silence)
ABMC SECRETARY MAX CLELAND: More than 30,000 Americans who died in the First World War are buried overseas. The American Battle Monuments Commission commemorates the sacrifice of those who fell through the care of the hallowed grounds in which they lie.