Veterans Day is a federal holiday in the United States observed annually on November 11. It honors all individuals who have served in the U.S. Armed Forces. The date was chosen to commemorate the armistice that ended World War I on the eleventh hour of the eleventh day of the eleventh month in 1918. While federal government offices close and some schools and businesses may also cease operations, the primary focus of the observance is on honoring living veterans for their patriotism and willingness to serve the nation.
Celebrations are both national and local in scale. A national ceremony is held at Arlington National Cemetery, which includes a wreath-laying at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier. Across the country, communities organize parades, church services, and other public gatherings. It is common for schools to hold assemblies where students can learn about the significance of military service. Many individuals observe the day by displaying the American flag, visiting veterans' hospitals, or placing flags on the graves of service members. It is also customary for businesses and restaurants to offer discounts, special promotions, or complimentary meals to veterans as a tangible expression of gratitude.
The observance is distinct from Memorial Day, which honors service members who died in service to their country. Veterans Day is primarily intended to thank and celebrate all veterans, especially the living. Originally established as Armistice Day to honor the veterans of World War I, the holiday was renamed in 1954 by an act of Congress to recognize veterans of all U.S. wars. The day thus serves as a national moment to recognize the profound contributions and sacrifices made by military veterans to preserve the nation's freedom and security.
