Veterans Day 2024 Explained: Date, History, and Why We Honour It?

Veterans Day, observed on November 11 each year, is a significant occasion dedicated to honouring all U.S. military veterans who have served in the armed forces. 

It honours military veterans who have served in the U.S. Armed Forces. Additionally, it is a federal holiday in the United States observed annually on November 11.

Furthermore, the significance of this date is rooted in history, marking the armistice that ended World War I on November 11, 1918, at the eleventh hour of the eleventh day of the eleventh month.

Across the nation, communities come together to celebrate with parades, ceremonies, and various events that express gratitude and respect for veterans. Many organisations also offer special discounts and services to show appreciation for their service. 

Veterans Day encourages reflection on the courage and dedication of those who have worn the uniform, fostering a deeper understanding of their invaluable role in shaping our history and securing our future.

Historical Context

Originally known as Armistice Day, the holiday was first commemorated in 1919, a year after the end of World War I. 

President Woodrow Wilson proclaimed November 11 as a day to reflect on the heroism of those who died in military service and to celebrate peace. In 1938, it became a legal holiday dedicated to world peace and was known as Armistice Day.

The transition from Armistice Day to Veterans Day occurred in 1954. This change was driven by veterans organisations that sought to honour all U.S. veterans, not just those who served in World War I. President Dwight D. Eisenhower signed the bill into law on May 26, 1954, officially designating November 11 as Veterans Day.

What is the Purpose of Celebrating Veterans Day?

Veterans Day serves several important purposes:

• Honouring Living Veterans: Unlike Memorial Day, which honours those who died in military service, Veterans Day is dedicated to thanking and honouring all living veterans for their service and sacrifices.
• National Reflection: It provides an opportunity for Americans to reflect on the contributions of military personnel throughout history and recognise their patriotism and dedication to the country.
• Community Events: The day is often marked by parades, ceremonies, and various community events that celebrate veterans' contributions. Many organisations also offer discounts and free services to veterans on this day.

What are Some Historical Events that Led to the Creation of Veterans Day?

Several key historical events led to the creation of Veterans Day, originally known as Armistice Day:

• End of World War I (1918): The armistice that ended World War I was signed on November 11, 1918, at the 11th hour, marking a significant moment in history as it halted hostilities between the Allied nations and Germany. This date became symbolic of peace and remembrance.
• First Armistice Day (1919): President Woodrow Wilson proclaimed November 11, 1919, as the first Armistice Day, emphasising the importance of honouring those who served in the war and reflecting on the peace achieved.
• Establishment as a Federal Holiday (1938): In 1938, Congress passed a law designating November 11 as a legal holiday dedicated to world peace, primarily honouring World War I veterans.
• Renaming to Veterans Day (1954): After World War II and the Korean War, there was a push to honour all veterans. In 1954, President Dwight D. Eisenhower signed legislation changing Armistice Day to Veterans Day to recognise all U.S. military veterans.
• Return to November 11 (1978): Although Veterans Day was briefly moved to the fourth Monday in October 1971 for a three-day weekend, it was returned to its original date of November 11 1978 due to public sentiment and confusion surrounding the date change.

What Are Some Lesser-Known Facts About Veterans Day?

Here are some lesser-known facts about Veterans Day:

• Originally Armistice Day: Veterans Day was initially called Armistice Day, commemorating the armistice that ended World War I on November 11, 1918. It was first observed in 1919, marking a moment of reflection and gratitude for those who served during the war.
• Legislation Changes: The day was officially designated as a federal holiday in 1938. However, it wasn't until 1954 that the name was changed to Veterans Day to honour all U.S. veterans, not just those from World War I.
• Date Confusion: In 1968, Veterans Day was moved to the fourth Monday in October as part of an effort to create three-day weekends for federal employees. This change led to widespread confusion and dissatisfaction, prompting President Gerald Ford to restore the holiday to its original date of November 11, 1975.
• National Ceremony: Each year, a significant ceremony takes place at Arlington National Cemetery, featuring a wreath-laying at the Tomb of the Unknowns at precisely 11:00 a.m., symbolising the time when the armistice took effect.
• Global Observance: While Veterans Day is specific to the United States, many other countries observe similar days of remembrance, such as Remembrance Day in the UK and Armistice Day in France, reflecting a global commitment to honouring military service and sacrifice.

Also Read| Are Schools and Banks Open on Veterans Day 2024? Check What’s Open and Closed Here!