Veterans Day, originally known as Armistice Day, has a rich history and is celebrated to honor military veterans for their service and sacrifice. This year it will be celebrated on Monday, 11 November.
This means that federal employees will observe the federal holiday, meaning many offices, schools, banks, and businesses will be closed.
Veterans Day is a day to honor and thank all military veterans for their service, not to be confused with Memorial Day, which specifically commemorates those who died in military service.
The history of Veteran’s Day
The origins of Veterans Day can be traced back to the conclusion of World War I. On November 11, 1918, at the 11th hour of the 11th day of the 11th month, an armistice was signed, bringing about a cessation of hostilities between the Allied nations and Germany... for a few decades. This pivotal moment marked the effective end of one of the deadliest conflicts in history, which resulted in significant loss of life and widespread devastation across Europe.
In recognition of this momentous occasion, President Woodrow Wilson proclaimed November 11 as Armistice Day in 1919. His intention was to honor the bravery and sacrifices of those who served during the war, as well as to promote lasting peace. Over time, this day evolved to honor all military veterans, leading to the modern observance of Veterans Day, where we celebrate the service and contributions of all those who have served in the United States Armed Forces.
“To us in America, the reflections of Armistice Day will be filled with solemn pride in the heroism of those who died in the country’s service and with gratitude for the victory, both because of the thing from which it has freed us and because of the opportunity it has given America to show her sympathy with peace and justice in the councils of the nations…” Wilson proclaimed.
19 years later, in 1938, it was made a federal holiday.
After World War II and the Korean War, the holiday’s name was changed to Veterans Day in 1954 to include veterans of all wars and conflicts. President Dwight D. Eisenhower signed this legislation into law.