Veterans Day is an annual tribute to those who served in our armed forces, but how many of us know the story behind this important day? Here are five things you might not know about Veterans Day that help us understand the holiday even better.
1. Veterans Day Started as Armistice Day
Veterans Day didn’t always have its current name or broad meaning. Originally called Armistice Day, it marked the end of World War I on November 11, 1918—when an agreement was signed with Germany to stop fighting. But in 1954, President Dwight Eisenhower renamed it Veterans Day to honor all servicemembers who have fought for our country, in any war.
2. There’s No Apostrophe in “Veterans” Day
Grammar enthusiasts, take note! While some holidays use an apostrophe (like New Year’s Day), Veterans Day is an exception. Since the day isn’t about ownership by any one veteran or group of veterans, it’s simply “Veterans Day,” celebrating all who have served.
3. It Hasn’t Always Been on November 11
Veterans Day almost became a “Monday holiday” like Memorial Day. In 1968, Congress passed a law to create three-day weekends for federal holidays, including Veterans Day. For a while, the holiday was moved to the fourth Monday in October, but there was enough resistance to the change that President Ford eventually moved it back to November 11 in 1975.
4. Arlington National Cemetery’s Annual Ceremony
A key Veterans Day tradition takes place at Arlington National Cemetery. At 11 a.m. on November 11, a wreath-laying ceremony is held at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier, followed by a color parade honoring all military branches. This moving tribute is open to the public and honors veterans with a sense of unity and respect.
5. NYC Hosts the Country’s Oldest Veterans Day Parade
For a final bit of Veterans Day history, did you know New York City hosts the oldest Veterans Day parade? Started in 1919, the Fifth Avenue event is both the biggest and the longest-running Veterans Day parade in the United States. It’s an incredible way to show gratitude to those who have served.
Veterans Day may be one day of the year, but it carries a deep history and national significance. Understanding more about its origins and traditions helps us all to honor our veterans with respect and gratitude.
Thank you, veterans!
