The History Behind Veterans Day & Why We Celebrate It
on Nov 08, 2024
Understanding Veterans Day: Its Origins And Modern Importance
Many Americans confuse Memorial Day and Veterans Day, but it is pivotally important for all American patriots to understand what we are celebrating and why.
Memorial Day occurs every year on the last Monday of May. This holiday honors
the servicemen and women who lost their lives in defense of this great nation.
Military.com defines Veterans Day as a holiday that “is set aside to thank and honor living veterans who served honorably in the military, whether in wartime or peacetime.” Although the holiday also remembers those who have lost their lives, it is more about celebrating America’s surviving veterans.
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The History Behind Veterans Day
Veterans Day was originally called Armistice Day.
Lawmakers established Armistice Day to honor those who lost their lives during World War I. On November 11, 1918, the Allies and the Central Powers signed an armistice agreement. Fighting ceased on the western front, marking the end of WWI.
The name changed because “In 1954, after the U.S. had gone through the devastation of World War II and the Korean War, the scope of the holiday broadened. At the urging of veterans service organizations, the 83rd U.S. Congress amended the Act of 1938 by replacing the word ‘Armistice’ with ‘Veterans.'”
Dwight Eisenhower wrote, “I have today signed a proclamation calling upon all of our citizens to observe Thursday, November 11, 1954, as Veterans Day. It is my earnest hope that all veterans, their organizations, and the entire citizenry will join hands to insure [sic] proper and widespread observance of this day.”
From that day forward, Veterans Day included all veterans, not just those who served in WWI.
The History Channel shared a short video about the history of Veterans Day; watch it below.
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November 11th marks the global end of World War I, so many people refer to it as Poppy Day. The poppy has been the symbol of remembrance for over 100 years, and it is common practice for people to wear a poppy on a significant day.
On this Veterans Day, we honor and thank the brave men and women who have served and sacrificed for our freedom. Your courage and dedication are inspiring.
