A Veterans Day Message

In 1938, the U.S. Congress declared November 11 of each year a legal holiday to “honor America’s veterans for their patriotism, love of country and willingness to serve and sacrifice for the common good.”  The date was chosen because an “armistice,” (a formal agreement to cease hostilities) was signed on November 11, 1918, effectively ending World War I.  That’s why we celebrate on November 11, and that’s why the holiday was originally called Armistice Day.  It was changed to Veteran’s Day in 1954, and became a way to pay respect to American veterans of all wars. 

Veteran’s Day is next Tuesday, and since a fair number Last Wave customers have served in our military, it’s only fitting that we honor them.  This Veterans Day, we would like to pay a special tribute to Gordie Duane, the founder of Gordie Surfboards and one of the true pioneers of the California surf culture.

Gordie Duane shaped his first board out of balsa wood salvaged from an old surplus life raft.  The year was 1950; Gordie was just 20 years old and serving in the U.S. Navy, stationed at Pearl Harbor, Hawaii.  When he returned to the mainland after serving his country, Gordie took his respect for the ocean and his extraordinary woodworking skills and started Gordie Surfboards. 

Here at Last Wave Originals, we are proud to help perpetuate Gordie’s legacy. To honor him and all who have worn the uniform, we’ve created a limited-edition “Gordie USA” t-shirt — a tribute not only to Gordie Duane the surfboard shaper, but also to Gordie Duane the U.S. serviceman.  Last Wave will donate a portion of the proceeds to AmpSurf, an incredible organization that helps veterans and people with disabilities experience the healing power of the ocean.  

My sincere thanks to all our loyal Last Wave customers, and a very special thanks to those of you who so proudly served in our military! 

Until Next time,  

 Ted