History of Veteran's Day

Monday, November 11, 2013 is Veterans Day.

 A veteran is a man or woman who worked in the military. United States veterans are honored on Veterans Day each year on November 11th with national and local parades and other programs to recognize their contributions.

 The ending of World War I fighting was celebrated at 11 a.m., November 11, 1918 (the 11th hour of the 11th day of the 11th month). The day originally became known as “Armistice Day.” Armistice Day was originally dedicated to the cause of world peace. An armistice is an official agreement to stop fighting. After World War II and the Korean War, Congress passed the bill that President Eisenhower signed in 1954 proclaiming November 11th as Veterans Day to honor veterans of all wars.

 In 1968, Veterans Day was moved to the last Monday in October, basically to allow 3 day weekends for federal employees. Many people did not agree with this decision and continued to celebrate the holiday on November 11th. In 1975, President Ford signed a law returning the official celebration of Veterans Day to its original date of November 11th beginning in 1978.

 In August, 2001, US Senate Resolution 143 designated the week of November 11th-17th as “National Veterans Awareness Week”. The resolution is directed toward educating students about the sacrifices and contributions of our veterans.
 Many people still confuse Veterans Day and Memorial Day. Veterans Day honors all military men and women who served our country. The primary purpose of Veterans Day is mainly to thank living veterans for their service to our country. Those killed in wars are honored specially on Memorial Day in May.

 Governmental offices usually close on Veterans Day. State and local governments make the decision to close offices and schools, or not. Banks and other businesses may close. Retail stores are usually open.

 Veterans Day often feels like a sad holiday, but there are many surviving veterans to salute. This is their special day. They should be honored and thanked for the brave service they gave and for being willing to put their lives on the line for the well being of all the citizens of the United States of America!