Veterans Day

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Veterans Day parade in Baltimore, 2016
Veterans Day poster 2018

Veterans Day is an annual holiday observed in the United States on November 11. This day is dedicated to honoring and thanking all military veterans who have served in the U.S. Armed Forces. Veterans Day coincides with other holidays such as Armistice Day and Remembrance Day, celebrated in other countries to mark the anniversary of the end of World War I; major hostilities of World War I were formally ended at the 11th hour of the 11th day of the 11th month of 1918 with the German signing of the Armistice of Compiègne.

History[edit | edit source]

The origin of Veterans Day can be traced back to the end of World War I. The United States Congress passed a resolution in 1926 for an annual observance, and November 11 became a national holiday beginning in 1938. Originally known as Armistice Day, the holiday was intended to honor veterans of World War I, but after World War II and the Korean War, the name was changed to Veterans Day to honor American veterans of all wars.

Observance[edit | edit source]

Veterans Day is observed with numerous ceremonies and parades across the United States. Many schools and businesses remain open on this day, but they may hold special programs to honor veterans. The U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs and many organizations hold events to highlight the contributions of veterans. The national ceremony takes place at the Arlington National Cemetery, where the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier is located. A moment of silence is observed at 11 a.m. to remember those who have served.

Significance[edit | edit source]

The significance of Veterans Day lies in the acknowledgment and appreciation of the sacrifices made by military personnel for the country. It is a day to remember the bravery, commitment, and the sacrifices of the U.S. military personnel for the nation's freedom and security. Unlike Memorial Day, which honors those who died while in service, Veterans Day pays tribute to all U.S. military veterans, both living and deceased.

Veterans Day vs. Memorial Day[edit | edit source]

It is important to note the distinction between Veterans Day and Memorial Day. While both holidays honor military personnel, Memorial Day, observed on the last Monday of May, is a day for remembering and

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Contributors: Prab R. Tumpati, MD