The History of Veterans Day

Contrary to popular belief, Veteran’s Day wasn’t always explicitly aimed at honoring the nation’s veterans.  Obviously that is an enduring purpose of the day, but Veteran’s Day is actually an international holiday.  Celebrated on November 11, Veteran’s Day was first intended to be a celebration of the Armistice that end the Great War, or World War I.  As such it is called Armistice Day or Remembrance Day in other parts of the world.  Truly it is a time to honor all veterans, not just those from the United States.  Veterans Day Begins In 1926, Congress passed a resolution to commemorate the end of World War I.  Obviously, a much larger conflict started 15 years later, so the name was changed from Armistice Day to Veteran’s Day as a way to commemorate all United States veterans, not just those of World War I.  It was introduced and signed into law by President Eisenhower, who said, “On that day let us solemnly remember the sacrifices of all those who fought so valiantly, on the seas, in the air, and on foreign shores, to preserve our heritage of freedom, and let us reconsecrate ourselves to the task of promoting an enduring peace so that their efforts shall not have been in vain.” Uniform Holidays Bill In 1968, the Uniform Holidays Bill was enacted, which stipulated that government employees would celebrate four national holidays on a Monday: Washington’s birthday (now President’s Day), Memorial Day, Veterans Day, and Columbus Day.  In 1978, the date for Veterans Day was again moved back to November 11, the original date of Armistice Day, after protests from veterans’ groups.  Celebrating Veterans Day The holiday is normally recognized by banks and government institutions, as well as public schools, but many businesses are still open for business on Veterans Day, as well as privately-run schools.  Throughout the country there are memorials for those who have fallen or fought in military conflict – at veterans cemeteries and memorials throughout the U.S. If you’re a U.S. veteran being honored, you’re not alone, as there are nearly 25 million veterans in the U.S., not to mention the vast number of veterans from other countries who fought alongside Americans in foreign wars.  It is a time to reflect and to pay thanks to the nation’s veterans who ensure we can all continue with the American way of life – indeed to continue with such traditions as Veterans Day.  Unlike Memorial Day, which commemorates those who have died serving their country, Veterans Day commemorates those who are still living, though the day also pays tribute to fallen heroes as well.     Comments (0) Show/Hide comments Write comment Show/Hide comment form Name Email Website Title Comment Add Comment