Veterans Day

Veterans Day, observed annually on November 11, honors all military veterans who have served in the United States Armed Forces. Its origins trace back to the end of World War I, when an armistice between the Allied nations and Germany went into effect on the 11th hour of the 11th day of the 11th month in 1918. Originally proclaimed as Armistice Day in 1919 by President Woodrow Wilson, it was later established as a national holiday in 1938. In 1954, after the Korean War, Congress amended the holiday to honor all American veterans, renaming it Veterans Day. Unlike Memorial Day, which commemorates those who died in service, Veterans Day specifically celebrates living veterans and their contributions to national security and peace.

Typical Veterans Day celebrations include parades, flag ceremonies, and special events organized by veteran service organizations and local communities. Many schools and businesses hold assemblies and moments of silence at 11:00 a.m. to mark the original armistice. The National Veterans Day Ceremony takes place at the Arlington National Cemetery, featuring a wreath laying at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier. Common traditions feature displaying the American flag at half-staff until noon, then full-staff for the remainder of the day. Traditional foods often include military-style meals such as MREs (Meals Ready-to-Eat) or classic Americana fare like burgers and apple pie. Common greetings include “Happy Veterans Day” or “Thank you for your service,” and many businesses offer discounts or free meals to veterans as a token of appreciation.