Veterans Day

November 11 is Veterans Day in America. It was originally known as “Armistice Day” beginning in 1919 when President Wilson commemorated those who fought in World War I. An armistice, or temporary cessation of hostilities, went into effect between Germany and allied nations on the 11th hour of the 11th day of the 11th month. This is why November 11 was the date chosen to honor veterans. 

In 1954, President Eisenhower issued the first Veterans Day Proclamation and constructed a Veterans Day National Committee to coordinate national level planning for the observance. 

Often confused with Memorial Day, Veterans Day actually pays tribute to all American veterans, whether they are alive or not. Memorial Day, however, is reserved for those who lost their lives in service. 

According to history.com, 18.2 million living veterans served in at least one war as of 2018. 7 million of them served in the Vietnam War and 3 million have served in the recent War on Terrorism. As of 2020, roughly 325,000 out of the 16 million Americans who served in World War II were still alive. 

Other countries that were involved in the Allied side of World War I also celebrate their veterans on or around November 11 of each year. Canada and Australia have a “Remembrance Day”, and Canadians typically wear red poppy flowers to honor those who died in battle. Great Britain also has a Remembrance Day with parades and two minutes of silence in London to honor those who lost their lives. Here in America, a memorial service is held at Arlington National Cemetery where thousands of soldiers are buried. 

According to a survey from Pew Research Center, 75% of Americans said that they would increase spending for veterans’ benefits and services if they were in charge of the federal budget. 

How can you recognize and honor veterans this Veterans Day? Simply appreciating their service is a wonderful way to honor the sacrifices they made during their time in war. There are also events and parades that you can attend or participate in. Fly a flag outside of your home or anywhere you choose to show your pride in the country. Sit down with a veteran and ask them about their time in service. This would especially mean a lot to older veterans who love in-person conversation and storytelling. 

No matter how you choose to honor veterans, try to make it a year-round effort as opposed to isolating it to one day.