A Closer Look at the History of Veterans Day

Of all the patriotic holidays throughout the year, Veterans Day is one of the two best known. Together with Memorial Day, this day honors the on-going service and sacrifice of the men and women who have served in a branch of the armed services. While Memorial Day primarily commemorates the lives of those who have left us or that have made the ultimate sacrifice, Veterans Day invites us to draw closer to the servicemen and women that are part of our family, community, and nation.

This holiday has an interesting history. Knowing a little bit more about where this holiday came from will certainly instill a greater appreciation for the many important values that are central to its celebration.

The Making of a Holiday

The roots of Veterans Day go all the way back to the end of World War I, nearly 100 years ago. In June 1919 the Treaty of Versailles was signed in France, thus ending the war with Germany’s official surrender. Just five months later in November, US President Woodrow Wilson established a new holiday on the 11th of that month. Initially known as Armistice Day, it commemorated the end of the war that was supposed to end all wars.

Though the peace that Armistice Day was supposed to celebrate did not last, the holiday became an important touchstone in American culture. It allowed people to remember the sacrifice of those who had served in the First World War and to reflect on the value of peace, service, and sacrifice.

A Holiday Transforms

Initially, Armistice Day was not a national holiday though it became so in 1938. Later, in 1954, the name of the holiday was officially changed to Veterans Day. This was done to be more inclusive of all service members who had served in WWII, the Korean War, and other conflicts. Interestingly, there was an attempt in 1968 to include Veterans Day as one of the holidays that grant Federal employees a three day weekend. Popular displeasure with this change from its original date resulted in President Ford officially returning the holiday’s observance back to November 11. This is where it has stayed ever since, regardless of what day of the week it falls on.

One Holiday, Many Meanings

Today Veterans Day is just one of the holidays honoring the service and sacrifice of military personnel. Others include:

• Memorial Day
• National Day of Service and Remembrance
• National POW/MIA Recognition Day

These days give people an opportunity to reflect on the value of patriotism and celebrate as a community. Many churches hold special Veterans Day services or offer an inspirational message in anticipation of upcoming civic observances.

You might have a deceased family member who was a veteran. If you know where they are buried, visit the cemetery with a wreath of flowers. If you have a living veteran in your family, be sure to include them in your plans. A simple family cookout can be a wonderful way to draw a little closer together. If you know a vet in the neighborhood that might be alone on Veterans Day, extend an invitation. You can get to know your neighbors and have the chance to thank a vet for their service.

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