Veterans Day, also known as Armistice Day or Remembrance Day in some countries, originated as a commemoration of the end of World War I. The armistice, a temporary cessation of hostilities, between the Allies and Germany went into effect on the 11th hour of the 11th day of the 11th month in 1918, marking the end of the war.
The first Armistice Day was observed on November 11, 1919, as a way to honor the soldiers who had served and sacrificed during World War I. It was a day to remember the soldiers who had lost their lives in the war and to celebrate the end of the conflict. The day was officially recognized in the United States in 1926 by a Congressional resolution.
In 1938, Armistice Day became a national holiday in the United States, dedicated to the cause of world peace. It was a day to honor all veterans, not just those of World War I. However, after World War II and the Korean War, it became evident that a single day was not enough to honor all veterans of all wars.
In 1954, after lobbying efforts by veterans’ service organizations, the U.S. Congress officially changed the name of Armistice Day to Veterans Day. The purpose was to recognize and honor all American veterans of all wars, not just World War I. President Dwight D. Eisenhower issued the first Veterans Day Proclamation on October 8, 1954.
Since then, Veterans Day has been celebrated annually on November 11th in the United States. It is a day to express gratitude and appreciation to all those who have served in the U.S. Armed Forces and to recognize their contributions and sacrifices in protecting the nation’s freedom.
