Veterans Day
HONORING THOSE WHO SERVED
WHAT IS VETERANS DAY?
Veterans Day is a significant national holiday in the United States dedicated to honoring military veterans—those who have served in the United States Armed Forces. Unlike Memorial Day, which honors those who died in military service, Veterans Day celebrates all U.S. military veterans, living or deceased. This day recognizes their sacrifices and contributions to the nation’s security and freedom
PURPOSE OF VETERANS DAY
The primary purpose of Veterans Day is to acknowledge and appreciate the dedication and bravery of military veterans. It serves as a reminder of the responsibilities and commitments of those who have served and continue to serve in protecting the country’s values and way of life. It’s a day for citizens to express gratitude and for veterans to connect with their communities. It’s important to highlight that on the census of 2022, there were 16.2 million veterans. This number declines every year. All of them deserve our respect.
HISTORY BEHIND VETERANS DAY
Veterans Day, originally known as Armistice Day, marked the armistice signed between the Allies of World War I and Germany. This truce took effect on the 11th hour of the 11th day of the 11th month in 1918, symbolizing the end of World War I hostilities on the Western Front. The truce had a profound impact on the world, bringing an end to one of the deadliest conflicts in history.
Initially, Armistice Day was meant to honor WWI veterans, but after WWII and the Korean War, the U.S. Congress recognized the need to honor all veterans. In 1954, President Dwight D. Eisenhower officially changed the name to Veterans Day. This decision broadened the scope of the day to celebrate veterans from all wars.
THE TOMB OF THE UNKNOWN SOLDIER
The Tomb of the Unknown Soldier was established in 1921 at Arlington National Cemetery. It symbolizes the nation’s respect and reverence for all of the unidentified soldiers who died in combat. It remains a poignant reminder of the sacrifices made by countless servicemen and women.
INTERESTING FACTS ABOUT VETERANS DAY
- Memorial Day vs. Veterans Day: Some people tend to need clarification on these two events. While Memorial Day honors those who have died in military service, Veterans Day celebrates all who have served.
- Global Observance: Countries like Canada, Australia, and Great Britain also honor their veterans around the same time, although with different traditions and names.
- Canada: Celebrates Remembrance Day with ceremonies and the wearing of red poppies.
- Australia: Known as Remembrance Day, marked by a minute of silence at 11 AM.
- Great Britain: Observes Remembrance Sunday on the second Sunday of November, with ceremonies at war memorials and the wearing of poppies.
- Military Celebrations in the U.S.: Veterans Day is celebrated nationwide with parades, ceremonies, and educational events. The Department of Veterans Affairs and various military organizations host events to honor veterans’ contributions.
- 11-11-11 Coincidence: Interestingly, The armistice took effect on the 11th hour of the 11th day of the 11th month, symbolizing peace and the end of hostilities.
IT’S TIME TO HONOR THOSE WHO SERVED THEIR COUNTRIES!
It’s time to honor those who served their countries—those who sacrificed everything, risking and even losing their lives during these challenging times. If you know one of these heroes, take a moment to thank them and show your appreciation. Many of them may still carry the emotional weight of those experiences, and your gratitude can make a significant difference.
