What is Veterans Day?
Veterans Day is a federal holiday in the United States. It honors military veterans, who are individuals who have served in the United States Armed Forces. Veterans Day recognizes and expresses gratitude for the service and sacrifices of all U.S. military veterans, both living and deceased. It is marked by ceremonies, parades, and various events to celebrate and support veterans, distinct from Memorial Day, which specifically honors those who have died in military service.
When is Veterans Day?
Veterans Day is observed annually on November 11. This date marks the anniversary of the armistice that ended World War I, which went into effect on the eleventh hour of the eleventh day of the eleventh month in 1918. If November 11 falls on a weekend, the federal holiday may be observed on the closest weekday, either Friday or Monday.
Traditional Activities of Veterans Day
Community and Public Events
Parades: Many cities across the U.S. host Veterans Day parades featuring military units, marching bands, and community groups. These parades serve to educate the public about veterans' contributions and foster respect for their service.
Ceremonies at Memorials: Official ceremonies often take place at national cemeteries and war memorials, including the laying of wreaths and moments of silence, particularly at 11:11 AM, marking the end of World War I hostilities.
Educational Programs: Schools and libraries frequently organize educational events that include discussions about the history of Veterans Day, inviting veterans to speak, and creative projects for students to learn about military service.
Home and Family Activities
Care Packages: Families often organize care-package packing parties to send supplies to deployed service members. Items typically include personal care products, snacks, and entertainment materials.
Sending Cards: Writing thank-you cards to veterans is a common practice, helping to express appreciation for their service. This can be a family activity, especially involving children.
Moment of Silence: Observing a moment of silence at 11 AM is a private yet powerful way to honor veterans, allowing individuals to reflect on their sacrifices.
Workplace Recognition
Special Events: Many workplaces hold luncheons or coffee breaks to honor veteran employees, providing a platform for sharing their experiences and fostering camaraderie among colleagues.
Wearing Symbols of Support: Employees might wear red poppies or other symbols to show solidarity with veterans. The red poppy is particularly significant, as it is associated with the American Legion Auxiliary and represents remembrance.
Highlighting Veteran Stories: Companies may feature veteran employees in newsletters or internal communications, sharing their stories and contributions to promote understanding and appreciation among civilian colleagues.
Volunteerism and Community Service
Supporting Veteran Organizations: Engaging in volunteer work with local veterans' service organizations (VSOs) can help address issues veterans face, such as PTSD and homelessness. This can include activities like building homes for veterans or volunteering at shelters.
Donations: Many choose to donate to charities that support veterans, contributing to programs that provide essential services and support.
The History of Veterans Day
Origins as Armistice Day
The date of November 11 marks the armistice that ended World War I, which took effect at 11 AM on November 11, 1918. This day was initially commemorated as Armistice Day, with President Woodrow Wilson proclaiming the first observance in 1919. He emphasized the importance of remembering the sacrifices made by those who served, stating that the day should be filled with "solemn pride in the heroism of those who died in the country’s service" and gratitude for the victory achieved through their efforts.
Establishment as a National Holiday
In 1938, Congress officially made November 11 a legal holiday dedicated to world peace and honoring World War I veterans. The day was known as Armistice Day until 1954, when, following the experiences of World War II and the Korean War, the 83rd Congress amended the original act. This change was driven by veterans' organizations advocating for recognition of all veterans, leading to the renaming of the holiday to Veterans Day on June 1, 1954.
Changes in Observance
In 1968, the Uniform Monday Holiday Act was passed, which moved Veterans Day to the fourth Monday in October to create three-day weekends for federal employees. This change faced significant opposition, as many states and veterans' groups preferred to celebrate on the original date due to its historical significance. Consequently, the first Veterans Day under the new law was observed on October 25, 1971, but confusion and dissatisfaction led to a reversion to the original date. On September 20, 1975, President Gerald R. Ford signed legislation returning Veterans Day to November 11, effective from 1978 onward.
