Georgia State Rep. Gene Maddox told Tuesday’s Veterans Day luncheon audience at Veterans of Foreign Wars VFW Post 4904 that veterans are true heroes and should be thanked every day for preserving America’s freedom and way of life.

“You as veterans put your life on the line to protect freedom,” Maddox said in opening his remarks. “Each generation of brave men and women veterans have done their part to preserve freedom for all of us.”

Maddox talked a little about the reason Veterans Day was celebrated each year on Nov. 11.

Veterans Day was originally called Armistice Day, he said.

“It commemorated November 11, 1918, when the United States signed an armistice with Germany bringing World War I to an end. It was signed on the 11th day of the 11th month at the 11th hour,” Maddox said.

“Many members of the American armed forces saved the lives of their comrades while making the ultimate sacrifice. They did it for love,” Maddox said.

“Regardless of their color, religion or ethnic background, they all loved America, its freedoms and its flag, which symbolizes respect for the country we love.”