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Originally called Armistice Day, it commemorated the end of World War I on November 11, 1918. The name was changed in 1954 to honor veterans of all wars
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Veterans Day is an annual U.S. federal holiday observed on November 11 to honor and thank all individuals who have served honorably in the U.S. Armed Forces, in wartime or peacetime.
Purpose and History
- Origin as Armistice Day: The holiday began as Armistice Day in 1919 to mark the end of World War I on November 11, 1918.
- Federal Holiday: It became a federal holiday in 1938.
- Name Change: Following World War II and the Korean War, the holiday's name was changed to Veterans Day in 1954 to honor all American veterans.
- Focus on the Living: Unlike Memorial Day, which honors those who died in service, Veterans Day specifically recognizes living veterans for their service.
Observance
- Date: Veterans Day is observed annually on November 11. If this date falls on a weekend, the federal holiday is typically observed on the closest weekday.
- Closures: Many federal and some state/local government offices, post offices, and banks are closed.
- National Ceremony: A national ceremony, including a wreath-laying, takes place at the Tomb of the Unknowns in Arlington National Cemetery at 11:00 a.m..