Celebrating Veteran’s Day: How and Why We Observe It

Each year on November 11, Veteran’s Day gives people all across our great country the chance to show appreciation to those who have served our nation in any branch of the military.

Coming on the heels of Election Day every four years, it’s a sobering reminder that the freedom that we have to choose our leaders is the direct result of the men and women who have put on various US military uniforms, spilled their blood, and even lost their lives in defense of those who have never set foot on foreign soil.

The fact that we’re free to celebrate holidays like Veteran’s Day is a testament to the courage that those individuals displayed when they served our nation. Unlike Armed Forces Day, Veteran’s Day is really about those who have served in the past.

While we should certainly be thankful for everyone who has ever served in any capacity, including those who are serving now, Veteran’s Day is a beautiful chance to say thank you to the men and women who have made our country what it is today.

Discover more about this holiday, its history, and some different ways that you can celebrate this year.

The History of Veteran’s Day

Before the United States started celebrating Veteran’s Day, we had a holiday in place known as Armistice Day. The first Armistice Day took place on November 11, 1919, as a celebration that marked the one-year anniversary of the armistice that brought an end to World War 1.

Just a year earlier, on November 11, 1918, at 11 AM, a ceasefire was issued between Germany and the Allied Forces, bringing a long awaited end to the world’s first truly global conflict.

The official proclamation in 1919 was issued, dubbing the day as a chance to celebrate those who fought “in the war to end all wars,” and by 1926, the US Congress officially recognized Armistice Day. It wasn’t until 1938 that Armistice Day was formally recognized as a federal holiday.

The holiday carried that title until 1954. Following the United States’ involvement in World War 2 and the Korean War, policymakers in Washington wanted to recognize those who had fought in other wars, and the holiday was renamed to Veteran’s Day.

The shift underscored the commitment of America’s leaders to recognize American veterans and their willingness to protect their country.

Why Do We Celebrate Veteran’s Day?

As of Veteran’s Day 2024, the US has been involved in 11 wars that were recognized by Congress. According to military records, 646,596 American troops have died in battle since the Civil War, while an additional 539,000 have died due to non-combat related causes.

It’s also reported that some 26 million Americans have served in the US military in some capacity. Those men and women are why we continue to observe Veteran’s Day. It’s a way of saying thank you to those who risked their lives, left their families, friends, and lives behind to defend our freedoms.

Veteran’s Day is an opportunity for us to show gratitude and for our nation to have at least one day where we’re completely unified.

Regardless of any differences that we may have, the fact remains that we’re free to have those differences because of the millions of people who have donned the uniforms of the various branches of the US military and served our nation.

How Is Veteran’s Day Different Than Memorial Day?

Many people get a bit confused about the differences in Memorial Day and Veteran’s Day, especially since both days revolve around showing appreciation for those who have fought for our nation. However, the two days have very different purposes.

In addition to the fact that Memorial Day takes place in may, these purposes mark the biggest differences between the two holidays.

Memorial Day is about remembering and celebrating those who lost their lives in defense of the United States.

While they should certainly be thanked every day, just as the veterans who are still with us are, Memorial Day is an opportunity to memorialize those who have fought and died. Conversely, Veteran’s Day is about appreciating everyone who has fought.

How to Celebrate Veteran’s Day

Traditionally, Veteran’s Day has been observed in various communities all across our nation with parades and other celebrations that focus on showing appreciation to veterans in the community. It’s also customary for local small businesses to offer free services to veterans on this day.

Many schools also have special assemblies and programs that include speeches from veterans who live in the community.

Even if you don’t live in an area that celebrates in these ways, there are plenty of other options for you. If you know a veteran personally, be sure to reach out and let them know how much you appreciate what they did.

Another great option is to look for ways to offer something back.

While there’s certainly no way for those of us who didn’t serve to ever pay back the cost that veterans paid, you can find plenty of organizations that work with and for veterans. Many of these groups are non-profits that rely heavily on volunteers. Consider reaching out to these groups to see if you could volunteer for the day, and perhaps beyond.

Depending on where you live, you can also spend some time visiting a Veteran’s Administration Hospital. Many of the patients who are in these hospitals are there for months or even longer and spending some time with a friendly face can serve as a great source of comfort.

Celebrate Veteran’s Day

You may not be able to utilize all of these ways of celebrating Veteran’s Day, and that’s perfectly fine. Ultimately, the day is about letting those who served know how much you appreciate their sacrifice.

Even if it’s a text message to someone you know who lives on the other side of the globe, you can do something to celebrate this holiday.