Each year on November 11, the United States observes Veterans Day, honoring all those who have served our country in times of war. Here at the Basilica, we are deeply grateful to all those who have committed their lives to furthering peace and freedom through military service, understanding the great physical, spiritual, and mental demands they face. Today, we invite you to explore a collection of posts written to encourage those who have served in the military and their loved ones, featuring saints who were soldiers, prayers for protection, verses of comfort, and more.
3 Saints Who Were Soldiers
Throughout the ages, there have been faithful saints who served in the military. Though some, like St. Martin of Tours, ultimately objected to armed conflict, others, like St. Joan of Arc, led armies in sweeping victories that would be remembered for centuries to come. Their stories may not all conjure visions of epic battles and anthems of valor, but each of these servants of God was ultimately driven by the courage to honor Him in all they did.
5 Things You Should Know About St. Martin of Tours
Born in Hungary in the 4th century, St. Martin of Tours is recognized as the patron saint of soldiers and conscientious objectors. Ultimately a man of peace, Martin worked zealously to spread the Gospel, serving as a missionary and later as the Bishop of Tours. Because of his love of peace, St. Martin of Tours’ feast day has traditionally been used as a day to sign peace treaties – including the Treaty of Versailles, which ended World War I. As we celebrate his feast day on November 11, we invite you to learn five key facts about his life and discover where you can find him in the Basilica.
10 Verses for Veterans
For those who have served in the military, returning from the field can be difficult, often fraught with mental health challenges, lifestyle changes, and physical setbacks. Whether you’ve served in the armed forces yourself or know someone who has, we invite you to reflect upon these verses of comfort and hope.
Prayers for Those in the Military
Many of us have loved ones in the military, and we often worry about their safety and well-being as they defend our freedom around the world. Whether you’re a concerned citizen praying for the wellbeing of our troops, the child of a service member stationed overseas, or a soldier being sent into action, this post features seven uplifting prayers that invoke God’s protection for those in the armed forces.
From the Army to the Basilica: An Interview with Walter Robinson, Security Guard
In honor of Veteran’s Day in 2020, we had a conversation with former Basilica security guard and World War II veteran Walter Robinson. Mr. Robinson was one of the African American troops known as “Buffalo Soldiers” serving in the U.S. Army. Learn about his time of service, what brought him to the Basilica, and more.