Veterans Day is a U.S. federal holiday observed on November 11 that honors all military veterans—those who have served in the U.S. Armed Forces—plus those who died in service in past wars. It originated as Armistice Day in 1919 to mark the end of World War I, with November 11 chosen because the armistice took effect at the “eleventh hour” of the eleventh day of the eleventh month in 1918. In 1954, Armistice Day was renamed Veterans Day to recognize veterans of all U.S. wars, and it is traditionally marked by ceremonies, moments of reflection, and activities to express gratitude to veterans.
Key points about what Veterans Day commemorates:
- It honors living veterans and their service, sacrifice, and contributions to the nation.
- It is distinct from Memorial Day, which specifically honors those who died in military service.
- Observances often include parades, wreath-laying at monuments and graves, school programs, and community events. Some businesses and organizations also offer discounts or free services as a token of appreciation.
What it means today:
- Veterans Day serves as a national moment to acknowledge the sacrifices of veterans and to support them as they transition to civilian life, with a focus on patriotism, remembrance, and gratitude.
If you’d like, I can tailor a concise guide for a specific audience (students, employers, community events) or provide a quick checklist for planning a Veterans Day observance.
