Veterans Day
Veterans Day: Honoring Those Who Served
Veterans Day is a federal holiday in the United States observed annually on November 11. It honors military veterans who have served in the U.S. Armed Forces, celebrating their sacrifices and contributions to national security. Originally known as Armistice Day, it marked the end of World War I on November 11, 1918, but was renamed Veterans Day in 1954 to recognize all veterans, regardless of when they served.
Quick Facts
- When is it? November 11 every year.
- Tagged as: A day of remembrance, honor, and gratitude for military service.
- What’s the hashtag? #VeteransDay
- When was it founded? First observed in 1919 as Armistice Day.
- Who founded it? President Woodrow Wilson proclaimed the first observance.
History of Veterans Day
Veterans Day originated as Armistice Day to commemorate the end of World War I. The armistice took effect at “the eleventh hour of the eleventh day of the eleventh month” in 1918. In 1938, it became a federal holiday dedicated to world peace and WWI veterans. After World War II and the Korean War, Congress renamed it Veterans Day in 1954 to honor all American veterans.
Timeline
- 1919: First Armistice Day proclaimed by President Woodrow Wilson.
- 1938: Armistice Day becomes a federal holiday.
- 1947: First celebration using “Veterans Day” held in Alabama.
- 1954: Officially renamed Veterans Day by President Dwight D. Eisenhower.
- 1978: Veterans Day restored to November 11 after briefly being moved under the Uniform Monday Holiday Act.
Dates from 2025 to 2030
| Year | Month and Date | Day |
|---|---|---|
| 2025 | November 11 | Tuesday |
| 2026 | November 11 | Wednesday |
| 2027 | November 11 | Thursday |
| 2028 | November 11 | Saturday |
| 2029 | November 11 | Sunday |
| 2030 | November 11 | Monday |
Observed
Veterans Day is observed with parades, ceremonies, and moments of silence across the country. A key event is held at Arlington National Cemetery, where a wreath is laid at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier. Many businesses and organizations also offer discounts or free meals to veterans.
Fun Facts About Veterans Day
- It is not “Veteran’s” or “Veterans'”; there’s no apostrophe because it’s a day for honoring all veterans.
- The red poppy is often associated with remembrance on this day.
- Other countries, like Canada and Australia, observe similar holidays called Remembrance Day.
Quiz
- What was Veterans Day originally called?
- Why is Veterans Day celebrated on November 11?
- Which U.S. president officially renamed Armistice Day to Veterans Day?
- How does Veterans Day differ from Memorial Day?
- Where is the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier located?
Answers:
- Armistice Day
- It marks the end of World War I on November 11, 1918.
- President Dwight D. Eisenhower
- Veterans Day honors all who served; Memorial Day honors those who died in service.
- Arlington National Cemetery
FAQs
Why is Veterans Day celebrated on November 11?
November 11 was chosen because it marks the end of World War I hostilities at the eleventh hour of the eleventh day of the eleventh month in 1918.
Is Veterans Day different from Memorial Day?
Yes, Memorial Day honors those who died while serving in the military, whereas Veterans Day honors all who have served.
Is Veterans Day a public holiday?
Yes, federal offices and many businesses close for observance.
Can non-veterans participate in events?
Absolutely! It’s a day for everyone to honor veterans.
Related
- Memorial Day
- Armed Forces Day
- Remembrance Sunday (UK)
- National POW/MIA Recognition Day
