What Day Do We Celebrate Veterans Day?
Veterans Day is a federal holiday in the United States that is celebrated on November 11th of every year. It is a day to honor and thank all military personnel who have served in the United States Armed Forces.
History of Veterans Day
Veterans Day has its roots in the end of World War I. The war ended on November 11, 1918, with the signing of the Armistice of Compiègne. This armistice went into effect at 11am Paris time, hence the term "the eleventh hour of the eleventh day of the eleventh month." Armistice Day was first celebrated on November 11, 1919, to commemorate the end of the war.
In 1938, Congress passed a law making Armistice Day a federal holiday. After World War II and the Korean War, there was a push to expand the holiday to honor all American veterans, not just those who died in World War I. Veterans Day was officially created in 1954, when Congress amended the Act of 1938 by striking out the word "Armistice" and inserting the word "Veterans."
How Veterans Day is Celebrated
Veterans Day is celebrated in various ways across the United States. Here are some common ways the holiday is observed:
• Parades: Many cities and towns hold parades to honor veterans, often featuring marching bands, floats, and veterans themselves.
• Ceremonies: Veterans organizations, government agencies, and private companies hold ceremonies to honor veterans, often featuring speeches, prayers, and the playing of the national anthem.
• Free meals: Many restaurants and businesses offer free meals to veterans and active-duty military personnel.
• Discounts: Some businesses offer discounts to veterans and active-duty military personnel.
• Wreath-laying ceremonies: Wreaths are laid at memorials and cemeteries to honor the sacrifices of veterans.
• Family activities: Many families use Veterans Day as an opportunity to spend time together, often participating in outdoor activities, volunteering, or visiting museums and historical sites.
Who is Eligible for Veterans Day Honors
Veterans Day honors all military personnel who have served in the United States Armed Forces, including:
• Active-duty military personnel: Those currently serving in the Army, Navy, Air Force, Marine Corps, and Coast Guard.
• Reservists: Those who have served in the Reserves, National Guard, or other reserve components.
• Veterans: Those who have been discharged or separated from military service.
• Widows and widowers: The spouses of deceased veterans who died as a result of their military service.
• Purple Heart recipients: Those who have been awarded the Purple Heart for wounds or death sustained in combat.
Table: Military Branches and Their Symbols
Military Branch | Symbol |
---|---|
Army | Eagle and Shield |
Navy | Anchor and Eagle |
Air Force | Shield and Wings |
Marine Corps | Eagle, Globe, and Anchor |
Coast Guard | Anchor and Shield |
Conclusion
Veterans Day is a day to honor and thank all military personnel who have served in the United States Armed Forces. It is a federal holiday celebrated on November 11th of every year, and is marked by parades, ceremonies, free meals, discounts, wreath-laying ceremonies, and family activities. Whether you are a veteran, active-duty military personnel, or a family member of a veteran, Veterans Day is an opportunity to show appreciation for the sacrifices made by those who have served our country.