What is Veterans Day? What you should know before your vacation

by Junna Base November 10, 2024

This Monday is Veterans Day, the annual federal holiday honoring those who have served in the military in times of war and peace.

The day has been celebrated in one form or another since 1919, when then-President Woodrow Wilson commemorated the first anniversary of the Armistice of World War I and said: “For us in America, the reflection of Armistice Day will be filled with solemn pride. “to commiserate with the heroism of those who died in the service of the country, and with gratitude for the victory, both for the cause from which it freed us and for the opportunity it gave America to show compassion with peace and Justice in the councils of the nations.”

It was officially recognized as a federal holiday in 1938 and was named “Veterans Day” in 1954.

Veterans Day is celebrated every year on November 11th – the day the Armistice ending World War I was signed, regardless of which day it falls on.

When will Veterans Day be celebrated in 2024?

Veterans Day falls on a Monday this year, meaning federal employees will observe the federal holiday on that day and many non-essential government services will remain closed.

Due to the holiday, many schools and companies will also be closed on Monday. Most retail stores and restaurants remain traditionally open and often offer discounts to military veterans.

What was Veterans Day originally called?

The day was first recognized by Congress in 1926 and became an official holiday in 1938, when it became known as Armistice Day and was primarily intended to celebrate World War I veterans.

In 1954, after World War II and the Korean War, the word “Armistice” was changed to “Veterans” to honor veterans of all American wars. The day on which Veterans Day was celebrated was postponed a few times over the years, but President Gerald Ford moved it back to his annual holiday on November 11 in 1978.

Is Veterans Day different from Memorial Day?

Aside from being celebrated in two different months, Veterans Day and Memorial Day have different purposes.

Memorial Day is observed each year on the last Monday of May and is intended to honor all who have served and given their lives for their country. Veterans Day occurs in November and honors all veterans, living and deceased, who served in times of war and peace.

Max Hauptman is a trends reporter for USA TODAY. He can be reached at [email protected]

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