The History of Veterans Day: A Tribute to American Valor
Veterans Day, observed annually on November 11th, is a solemn American holiday dedicated to honoring military veterans who have served in the U.S. Armed Forces. Unlike Memorial Day, which remembers those who died in service, Veterans Day pays tribute to all American veterans, both living and deceased, with particular emphasis on thanking living veterans for their sacrifices and service to the country. The history of Veterans Day is a story of gratitude and respect, evolving through the years to encompass the recognition of veterans from all American wars.
The origin of Veterans Day dates back to the end of World War I, famously known as “The Great War.” World War I officially ended when the Treaty of Versailles was signed on June 28, 1919. However, fighting ceased seven months earlier when an armistice, or temporary cessation of hostilities, between the Allied nations and Germany went into effect on the eleventh hour of the eleventh day of the eleventh month. Therefore, November 11, 1918, is generally regarded as the end of “the war to end all wars.”
In November 1919, President Woodrow Wilson proclaimed November 11 as the first commemoration of Armistice Day with the following words: “To us in America, the reflections of Armistice Day will be filled with solemn pride in the heroism of those who died in the country’s service and with gratitude for the victory.” Initially, the day was observed with parades, public meetings, and a brief suspension of business activities at 11 a.m.
It was in 1938 that November 11 became a legal holiday, known as Armistice Day. It was primarily a day set aside to honor veterans of World War I. However, after World War II and the Korean War, veteran service organizations urged Congress to change the word “Armistice” to “Veterans.” In 1954, President Dwight D. Eisenhower signed legislation changing the name to Veterans Day in order to honor American veterans of all wars.
One of the more significant historical footnotes of Veterans Day happened in 1968 when the Uniform Holidays Bill aimed to ensure three-day weekends for federal employees by celebrating four national holidays on Mondays. Veterans Day was moved to the fourth Monday of October. However, this caused a lot of confusion and controversy, leading to the return of the observation of Veterans Day to November 11 in 1975 under President Gerald Ford, due to the historical significance of the date.
Today, Veterans Day continues to be observed on November 11, regardless of what day of the week it falls on. The United States holds ceremonies and parades to honor the brave men and women who have served in the U.S. military. Schools and communities organize events to educate the public about the sacrifices made by veterans and their families. It is a day of reflection and gratitude, a time to remember that the freedoms we enjoy come at a high price paid by the courage and dedication of those who have chosen to serve their country.
In summary, Veterans Day stands as a powerful reminder of the bravery, sacrifice, and commitment of American veterans. It is a day for the nation to collectively express appreciation and reverence for the veterans who have served and protected the United States.