Armistice Day Proclamation, Massachusetts
by Calvin Coolidge
11 November 1919

  
Notes by RWF:

Among other offices, Calvin Coolidge was Governor of Massachusetts (1919–1921) when he issued this proclamation; and later was President of the United States (1923–1929).

When this proclamation was written, the American flag was "Old Glory", heroism referred to brave actions of real heroes, and patriotism was a valued virtue:

Massachusetts has many glories. The last one she would wish to surrender is the glory of the men who have served her in war. While such devotion lives the Commonwealth is secure. ...

And the best leaders understood and upheld a clear distinction:

War is the rule of force. Peace is the reign of law. ...

© 2014 Robert Wilfred Franson