Veterans Day

Veterans Day is a federal holiday in the United States, observed every November 11, to recognize and honor all military veterans. The day features ceremonies, parades, and moments of reflection across the country, marking the anniversary of the end of World War I.

• Observed every November 11 across the United States
• Honors all U.S. military veterans, living and deceased
• Originated as Armistice Day, marking World War I's end
• Often features parades and ceremonies nationwide
• A two-minute silence is recommended at 2:11 pm EST

What it is

Veterans Day is a national observance in the United States dedicated to honoring everyone who has served in the U.S. Armed Forces, regardless of whether they served in war or peace. The holiday is a time for Americans to express gratitude to veterans for their service and sacrifices. Unlike Memorial Day, which specifically commemorates those who died in military service, Veterans Day pays tribute to all living and deceased veterans. The day is marked by ceremonies, public gatherings, and acts of appreciation, reflecting the nation's respect for its military community.

Where it comes from

The roots of Veterans Day go back to Armistice Day, first marked on November 11, 1919, to commemorate the end of World War I. The armistice that ended major hostilities in that war took effect at the eleventh hour of the eleventh day of the eleventh month in 1918. Originally, the holiday honored those who fought in World War I, but after World War II, efforts led by veterans and advocates broadened its scope. In 1954, the U.S. Congress officially renamed Armistice Day as Veterans Day, expanding its purpose to honor all American veterans. The date has remained a symbol of peace and remembrance ever since.

How it is celebrated

Veterans Day is observed with a variety of ceremonies and activities throughout the United States. Many communities hold parades featuring veterans, military bands, and local organizations. At 2:11 pm Eastern Standard Time, a two-minute silence is recommended to reflect on the contributions of veterans. Federal offices and many schools close for the day, and non-essential government services pause in recognition. Some veterans wear their uniforms or display medals, and families often participate in local events. The holiday also sees tributes at war memorials and cemeteries, where people lay wreaths or flags in honor of those who served.

Joining in

Visitors in the United States can take part in Veterans Day by attending public parades, ceremonies at memorials, or community gatherings, especially in cities with strong military ties. Major events are often held in places like Washington, D.C., and local veterans' organizations frequently welcome newcomers to join in acts of remembrance. Observers are encouraged to participate respectfully, whether by attending a parade, observing the national moment of silence, or simply thanking veterans for their service.

In the news

• 2026 Veterans Day CeremonyCity of Mentor, Ohio
• Save the date for Veterans Day on Longboat KeyYour Observer
• Veterans Daybritannica.com
• The second annual Gulfstock, a festival to honor veterans while bringing the community together for a meaningful day of music, fellowship and support, will be from 10 a.m. to midnight Saturday, Sept. 5, at Saengerfest Park, 2302 Strand St. facebook.com

Sources and attribution

This page is Mela's own summary, written in new words. Its facts are drawn from the Wikipedia article Veterans Day, whose text is available under the CC BY-SA 4.0 licence, and from its Wikidata record (CC0). Each photo is credited to its author beside it, and news headlines link to their publishers. For the full account, read the originals below.

Read more

• Veterans Day on WikipediaEncyclopedia
• Encyclopaedia BritannicaArticle
• More photos on Wikimedia CommonsPhotos
• Wikidata recordOpen data

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