The Bravery to Persist: Honoring Winston Churchill

Celebrating Courage, Wisdom, and Churchill’s Legacy

A reflection for National Winston Churchill Day: 

“Success isn’t permanent, failure isn’t deadly: what truly matters is the bravery to persist.” 

On April 9, 1963, President Kennedy signed a law that granted Churchill — the soldier, writer, and tireless British Prime Minister- honorary U.S. citizenship. It wasn’t his birthday, nor the anniversary of his death (he was still alive), but the day held military importance for everyone. Sir Winston, honored with a knighthood by the Queen for his service to England during the war, is recognized for bringing together the British populace in the bleakest moments of World War II. 

In honor of Winston Churchill Day on April 9, we present excellent facts and concise quotes to assist you in “keeping calm and carrying on.” 

Background of National Winston Churchill Day

There is a lot to discuss regarding the half-American, entirely resilient English gem known as Winston Churchill. Born to a prosperous American mother and the grandson of a Duke, Churchill entered the world destined for greatness. His formative years, however, were challenging, as he faced difficulties with school and his academics. His instructors referred to him as “irresponsible and tardy.” As he aged, Churchill thrived in history and started creating poetry that appeared in school publications. Following persistent urging from his father, Churchill commenced his preparation for a military career and finished at the Royal Military Academy in 1894.

In his early 20s, from 1895 to 1900, Churchill fought in Cuba, India, Sudan, and South Africa, received mentions in dispatches and a recommendation for an award, secured four campaign medals along with the Spanish Order of Military Merit, authored five books, became a well-known war correspondent and lecturer, achieved global notoriety as an escaped POW, and won a seat in Parliament, all prior to turning twenty-six. He would subsequently guide Britain to triumph in the second World War while serving as prime minister.

As a renowned politician, military leader, and author, it’s difficult to ascertain which role he had the greatest influence on. With a Nobel Prize in Literature, multiple honors, and a significant influence on our contemporary world, we take this day to pay tribute to a man who not only reached greatness but also embodied it. 

Timeline of National Winston Churchill Day

• 1874 Churchill’s Birthday- Sir Winston Leonard Spencer Churchill was born on November 30, 1874, at Blenheim Palace in Oxfordshire, England.

• 1940 Churchill and Science- Churchill is the first Prime Minister to demand that scientists receive unprecedented access to government resources and funding, leading to the establishment of the revolutionary Bernard Lovell telescope.

• 1946 The Iron Curtain- Churchill gave his “Iron Curtain” address in Fulton, Missouri on March 5.

• 1953 Nobel Prize- Churchill is awarded a Nobel Prize in literature.

• 1965 Dies at age 90- Winston Churchill dies at his London residence nine days after experiencing a major stroke.

Ways to Celebrate National Winston Churchill Day

• Watch your Favorite British Television Series in One Sitting: Enjoy “The Great British Bake Off” or “Doctor Who”? If not, browse your favorite British videos on YouTube.

• Discover your Inner British Persona: Regardless of whether your nationality is apparent or less visible, it’s likely that some Brits are concealed within the figurative woodpile of your genetic makeup. Seek them out and display them with pride.

• Experience a Day as Winston Churchill: Put on a tuxedo, a top hat, and carry a cane. Keep in mind to always have a cigar nearby and a prepared list of quotes such as: “Courage is the ability to stand up and speak,” “Kites soar highest against the wind,” and “Never Never Never surrender.”

Read More: Wrapped in Flavor: Celebrating National Empanada Day

Interesting Information About Winston Churchill

• Churchill Nearly Missed Attending Military School: They say the third time was lucky, and that’s how many attempts it took Churchill to pass the entrance exams for the Royal Military College at Sandhurst.

• Best Friend Winston: The initial occurrence of the abbreviation OMG was in correspondence addressed to Winston Churchill.

• Possessed a Delicate Aspect: Churchill frequently became emotional and teary in Parliament.

• Prone to Accidents: Among various injuries, Churchill has experienced a concussion, a ruptured kidney, nearly drowned in a Swiss lake, fallen from multiple horses, dislocated his shoulder, and been struck by a car.

• Conflict Leaves you Parched: He carried 60 bottles of alcohol with him when he departed for the Boer War.

Read More: You Are Not Forgotten: Honoring Former Prisoners of War

Reasons National Winston Churchill Day Matters

• “Stay Composed and Move Forward”: Churchill didn’t say these iconic words- yet he is arguably the individual most associated with them. Currently, we utilize this slogan to advocate for various services and principles.

• The Finest Among the British: From pop culture to kings and queens, Americans continue to embrace all things British, including Churchill being an honorary citizen.

• Tells us that There is Still Sme Goodness in the World: Churchill provided a remarkable model for everyone, not solely the British population. Brave, persistent, knowledgeable, and unyielding, he embodied all we required in a leader as fascism swept across the globe. He was a distinguished politician, speaker, and leader who united the globe in support of liberty. His determination shaped the world we now have, and that is important to acknowledge and honor.

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