History of Veterans Day

… the eleventh hour of the eleventh day of the eleventh month …
Veterans Day, originally called Armistice Day, is celebrated on November 11th – the anniversary of the unofficial end of World War I – and honors all Americans who served in wartime or peacetime.

On this day in 1918, the fighting in World War I ended; exactly one year later, on November 11, 1919, President Woodrow Wilson dedicated the day to those who served the country, proclaiming: “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 …”

In 1954, the day transitioned from Armistice Day to “Veterans Day to honor veterans of all U.S. wars” (Library of Congress).

A Soldier’s Firsthand Account of the War’s End:

“Firing ceases on all fronts at 11 o’clock. My first thoughts are for the lads, no doubt many, who gave up their lives before 11. It is a pity. Celebrations immediately begin … All the factory and railroad sirens blow for a long time. Bunting and flags show from all buildings … Shops and factories close and the native population is free to make a holiday.”

Pfc. Irving Greenwald writing in his diary on November 11, 1918. Greenwald’s detailed account of his experience in World War I spans just over one year and can be viewed on the Library of Congress.

The Difference Between Veterans Day and Memorial Day:

Memorial Day honors those who lost their lives fighting for our country.

“… Veterans Day is largely intended to thank LIVING veterans for their service, to acknowledge that their contributions to our national security are appreciated, and to underscore the fact that all those who served – not only those who died – have sacrificed and done their duty,” the Department of Veterans Affairs explains.