1. Veterans Day is always November 11
Veterans Day is always November 11, regardless of the day of the week. It is a National holiday often celebrated with parades, festivals, and events to honor local veterans.
2. President Eisenhower Changed name of the Holiday
Prior to 1954, we celebrated Armistice Day, commemorating the end of World War I, on November 11. President Dwight D. Eisenhower officially changed the name to Veterans Day and made it a day to honor all veterans.
3. Veterans Day and Memorial Day are different.
In November, we celebrate Veterans Day, a federal holiday honoring all United States veterans. Memorial Day is a federal holiday in May each year when we remember service members who sacrificed their lives.
4. Other Countries Honor their Veterans around the same time of year.
Around November 11, France, Australia, Canada, and Great Britain also honor their veterans as World War I was a multi-country effort, and thousands of lives were lost. The United Kingdom and Canada call the day of honor Remembrance Day.
5. An Annual Event is held at Arlington National Cemetery
Each year, on November 11 at precisely 11 am, Arlington National Cemetery in Virginia holds a Veterans Day event on November 11 at 11 am. The ceremony begins with a wreath-laying at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier. The public is welcome to attend.
If you have the chance, go into a military community during Veterans Day to experience the true spirit of this observed holiday. Even if you don’t live near a military base, your community likely has special events or festivals to honor your local military members.
Veterans Day is all about honoring those who served. Please take a moment to express your heartfelt gratitude to all the brave men and women who have served in our the U.S. Armed Forces. Their courage, sacrifice, and dedication to our country inspire us daily.