The history of Veteran’s Day

Through the many changes during our nation’s history, one things remains constant: America’s dedication to democracy and the commitment of the men and women who defend it by putting their lives on the line for the freedom of all Americans.

According to the U.S. Dept. of Veterans Affairs, Veterans Day begin during World War I. World War I, known at the time as “The Great War,” 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. For that reason, Nov. 11, 1918, is generally regarded as the end of “the war to end all wars.”

In November 1919, President Wilson proclaimed Nov. 11 as the first commemoration of Armistice Day. The original concept for the celebration was for a day observed with parades and public meetings and a brief suspension of business beginning at 11 a.m.

An Act was approved May 13, 1938, and made the eleventh of November in each year a legal holiday – a day to be dedicated to the cause of world peace and to be thereafter celebrated and known as “Armistice Day.” Armistice Day was primarily a day set aside to honor veterans of World War I, but in 1954, after World War II had required the greatest mobilization of soldiers, sailors, Marines and airmen in the Nation’s history, Congress amended the Act of 1938 by striking out the word “Armistice” and inserting in its place the word “Veterans.” With the approval of this legislation on June 1, 1954, Nov. 11 became a day to honor American veterans of all wars.

Veterans Day continues to be observed on Nov. 11, regardless of what day of the week on which it falls. Veterans Day is a celebration to honor America’s veterans for their patriotism, love of country, and willingness to serve and sacrifice for the common good.

Fewer causes are so imperative or so noble. This Veterans Day, remember the service of our brave men and women in uniform and thank them for their sacrifice and for their service.

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Posted by Graphic Designer 2 on Nov 10 2012. Filed under Editorial. You can follow any responses to this entry through the RSS 2.0. Both comments and pings are currently closed.