Veterans Day is a federal holiday in the United States dedicated to honoring all military veterans who have served in the U.S. Armed Forces. It is observed annually on November 11, and it marks a tribute to veterans rather than to those who died in service (that distinction belongs to Memorial Day). It originated as Armistice Day, commemorating the end of World War I, and was renamed Veterans Day in 1954 to recognize veterans of all wars. [sources summarized from historical and contemporary references]