Veterans Day: History, Meaning & Ways to Observe

Every year, Americans observe Veterans Day to honor past and present veterans of the United States Armed Forces. Originally known as Armistice Day, this federal holiday commemorated the end of World War I before expanding to recognize veterans of all military conflicts. From its history and significance to the differences between Veterans Day and Memorial Day, learn why we celebrate Veterans Day and discover meaningful ways to show appreciation for those who have served our country.

• When is Veterans Day?
• What is Veterans Day?
• What was Veterans Day Originally Called?
• Is Veterans Day a Federal Holiday?
• Memorial Day vs Veterans Day
• Ways to Observe Veterans Day
  

When is Veterans Day?

Veterans Day takes place each year on November 11th, the anniversary of the 1918 armistice with Germany that ended World War I.

What is Veterans Day?

Veterans Day is a national holiday that was originally created to observe the end of fighting in World War I. Today, Veterans Day celebrates the service of all American veterans from any conflict. 

World War I began in 1914 between two factions: The Central Powers of Germany, Austria-Hungary, the Ottoman Empire, and Bulgaria; and the Allies or Entente of France, the UK, Russia, Italy, Japan, and the United States. The war was brutal, and following a series of Entente victories in 1918, most Central Powers signed armistice agreements in September and October of that year. 

On the 11th hour of the 11th day of the 11th month of 1918, the armistice between the final Central Power of Germany and the Entente took effect, ending active warfare. A year later, US President Woodrow Wilson announced the first Armistice Day on November 11, 1919, to commemorate the end of the war. 

In 1926, Congress adopted a resolution calling on the president to issue a proclamation for the observance each year. In 1938, Congress formally made Armistice Day a federal holiday dedicated to world peace.

Following the end of World War II in 1945, a veteran named Raymond Weeks advocated for Armistice Day to honor all American veterans. He met with General Dwight Eisenhower, who supported his idea. Weeks began leading national celebrations in Alabama in 1947, earning him the title of the “Father of Veterans Day”. During Eisenhower’s presidency, a bill was introduced in Congress by Representative Ed Rees to formally establish Armistice Day as a celebration of all veterans. It was signed by Eisenhower in May of 1954 and amended by Congress in June, renaming “Armistice Day” to “Veterans Day”.

What was Veterans Day Originally Called?

Veterans Day was originally named Armistice Day, when the holiday was established on November 11, 1919. It was named after the Armistice, or agreement, between the Entente forces and Germany to end active warfare at the end of World War I. Armistice Day was renamed to Veterans Day by Congress in 1954.

Is Veterans Day a Federal Holiday?

Yes, Veterans Day is a federal holiday. Many federal government offices are closed on this day, and mail is not delivered.

Memorial Day vs Veterans Day

Veterans Day honors all American veterans, including those who are still alive and those who have since passed away. Memorial Day, which is observed on the last Monday of May, is specifically a day of mourning for US service members who died during their service. Read more about Memorial Day on our blog.

Ways to Observe Veterans Day

1. Thank a Veteran: Whether in person or by sending a heartfelt letter, you can make a difference by letting a veteran know you care and are thankful for their service.
2. Pay your Respects: Visit the resting place of a veteran to pay respects and reflect on their service and sacrifice.
3. Local Celebrations: Attend a Veterans Day ceremony, where communities unite to honor their veterans.
4. Visit Arlington National Cemetery: Consider visiting this solemn and powerful site, where a special annual ceremony pays tribute to our veterans.
5. Fly the American flag: Flying your flag can show unity during this significant flag-flying holiday. This simple act goes a long way.

As we celebrate Veteran’s Day, let us remember the bravery, dedication, and selflessness of our military service members. It is a day to honor their commitment to our country and to express our heartfelt appreciation for their service in protecting and defending our freedom.