Veterans Day 2019

Today’s Doodle, painted by Massachusetts-based veteran and guest artist Pete Damon, celebrates Veterans Day in the United States. One of the country’s 10 federal holidays, this day specifically honors members of the nation’s armed forces.

Below, Pete shares his story and thinking behind the Doodle:

As a severely injured Iraq War veteran, the celebration of all those who serve is of paramount importance to me. In 2003, I lost parts of both arms while serving in-theater as a helicopter mechanic. I would not be alive today were it not for my fellow service members who sprang into action to save my life.

I started painting as a form of therapy, which led me to pursue a career in art. I've been painting scenes of children planting flags for some time now. As a young Cub Scout, my son's troop would often be recruited to plant flags to honor veterans. My wife and I would often tag along. I found the scene of those children honoring veterans to be very moving and profound. I would ask my wife Jenn to take photos for possible future paintings.

I've witnessed children taking part in similar displays of patriotism on Veterans Day when large fields, usually in public spaces, are filled with a sea of little flags. I thought it would make for the perfect painting subject. I asked permission from a friend and fellow veteran, Hillary Moll, who captured these scenes in photographs to use some of them as a reference.

Those photographs provided me with the perfect inspiration for this Doodle. When I was approached about the project, I was extremely honored and more than a little apprehensive. I was not sure I was up to the task, but was willing to give it my best.

I named this piece “Paying Tribute,” showing two children, one wearing camouflage and the other with a sailor’s cap and navy blue shirt, setting up a Veterans Day flag display. It is meant to honor all of those who have served in the U.S. Armed Forces.

With this piece, I hope people will realize and appreciate the personal sacrifice that all who serve in the military endure securing the liberty of all Americans. I particularly hope that people will recognize the importance of teaching children to honor their service.

Pete alongside the Doodle he created and working on another painting

If you or someone you know is a veteran in crisis, please reach out to the Veterans Crisis Line here or call 1-800-273-8255 & press 1. 

The Veterans Crisis Line is a free, confidential resource that’s available to anyone, even if you’re not registered with VA or enrolled in VA health care. The caring, qualified responders at the Veterans Crisis Line are specially trained and experienced in helping veterans of all ages and circumstances.

Early proposed concepts

"Reunion" - This sketch depicts a servicemember in camouflage uniform being embraced in reunion by his young son. Each branch of service has a version of this uniform. The Google logo is again spelled out in background foliage. 

"Mementos of Service" - this final sketch is a still life of various items familiar to all branches. Dogtags, a yellow ribbon, "Buddy Poppies" given out by the American Legion on Veterans Day, as well as a Purple Heart and an embroidered American flag patch are arranged to spell out the Google logo.

Drafts of today’s Doodle