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Veterans Day is a federal holiday in the United States associated with recognizing military veterans, that is, the people who have served in the United States Armed Forces. It is distinct from Memorial Day, which honors those who died while in military service, and Armed Forces Day, which honors those currently serving in the military. While Memorial Day is a day of remembrance for those who made the ultimate sacrifice, Veterans Day is a day to honor all vets, living and dead.
When is Veterans Day?
Veterans Day is observed yearly on November 11.
On this date in 1918, at the eleventh hour of the eleventh day of the eleventh month, the Armistice that ended World War I was signed. This specific time was chosen to symbolize the end of the war and the hope for a lasting peace.
Veterans Day Historical Context
Veterans Day is a federal holiday in the United States observed on November 11th every year. It is a day to honor and thank all military personnel who have served in the United States Armed Forces.
Veterans Day was initially known as Armistice Day, and on November 11, 1919, it was initially observed to mark the end of World War I. This day is also observed in many other countries as Remembrance Day, a day to honor those who died in the line of duty. The holiday was created to honor the end of hostilities on the Western Front, which occurred on November 11, 1918. The Allies' and Germany's Armistice began to take effect at 11 a.m., marking the end of the war.
The occasion was renamed Veterans Day in 1954 in observance of all American veterans, not just those who served in World War I. This expansion was a significant step towards recognizing the contributions of all military personnel who have served in the United States Armed Forces, including those who have served in World War II, the Korean War, the Vietnam War, the Gulf War, and other conflicts.
How is Veterans Day Celebrated?
On Veterans Day, many Americans observe the holiday by:
Veterans Day is a federal holiday, which means that many government offices, schools, and businesses are closed on this day. It is also a day for Americans to come together and show appreciation for the sacrifices and service of the men and women who have served in the United States Armed Forces.
Here are the upcoming dates for Veterans Day for the next few years:
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