Veterans Day, a yearly federal holiday honoring those who have served in the armed forces during times of war and peace, falls on Monday.
In 1919, to mark the first anniversary of the World War I armistice, then-President Woodrow Wilson said, “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, both because of the thing from which it has freed us and because of the opportunity it has given America to show her sympathy with peace and justice in the councils of the nations.” This is the first time the day has been observed in one form or another since 1919.
In 1938, it received formal federal holiday status, and in 1954, it was renamed Veterans Day.
Regardless of the day it falls on, Veterans Day is observed annually on November 11, the day the armistice ending World War I was signed.
When is Veterans Day observed in 2024?
Since Veterans Day occurs on a Monday this year, many non-essential government services will be closed and federal employees will observe the federal holiday.
In observance of the holiday, numerous businesses and educational institutions will also be closed on Monday. Traditionally, the majority of restaurants and retail establishments stay open and frequently give military discounts.
What was Veterans Day originally called?
Originally declared a holiday by Congress in 1926, “Armistice Day” was declared a national holiday in 1938 with the primary goal of honoring World War I soldiers.
To honor of all American conflicts, the word “armistice” was changed to “veterans” in 1954, the year after both World War II and the Korean War. Over the years, the date of celebrations changed a few times, but by 1978, President Gerald Ford had returned it to its yearly observance on November 11.
Is Veterans Day different from Memorial Day?
In addition to being celebrated in two distinct months, Veterans Day and Memorial Day have different goals.
In remembrance of those who served and sacrificed their lives for their nation, Memorial Day is celebrated annually on the final Monday in May. All living and deceased who served throughout both times of war and peace are honored on, which is observed in November.
