Every year on November 11 Americans celebrates Veterans Day to honor millions of men and women who are served or are serving in a nation’s armed forces. But, you probably don’t know the whole story behind the holiday.
It wasn’t original call the Veterans Day. First, it was Armistice Day to memory on the truce signed between Allies and Germany in World War I which is signed on the 11th hour on the 11th day of the 11th month 1918. One year after this important meeting, the USA celebrated the first Armistice Day. Later America began honoring unknown soldiers on Armistice Day, a tradition that continues even today. This holiday celebrated with army parades and color guard ceremony representing all branches of the military.
In 1954 the name was changed to Veterans Day following a national campaign to honor all veterans, not just those who served in WWI. But, if you think that this holiday was celebrated on November 11 from the beginning, you would be wrong. In 1968 Congress moved Veterans Day to the 4th Monday in October. It was not until 1975 when president Gerald Ford returned it to November 11. That’s where it sits on the calendar even today.
Veterans Day honors all Americans veterans living and dead. Because it is a federal holiday, some American workers and many students have a day off.
On this holiday, we won’t forget to say thanks to all who served their country, for their patriotism, love of their nation and willingness to serve and sacrifice for the common good.
Editor’s Note: Quotes about patriotism everyone should remember.