Veterans Day: Remembering and honoring the brave

Veterans Day, a federal holiday in the United States, is an annual event that celebrates and honors military personnel. While Memorial Day honors those who have died in service, Veterans Day honors both living and deceased war veterans who served our country. Celebrations, parades and activities take place in communities across the nation while the official wreath-laying ceremony at the Tomb of the Unknowns in Arlington National Cemetery.

Veterans Day History

The holiday, originally called Armistice Day, was created to honor the end of World War I, which occurred during the 11th hour, on the 11th day of the 11th month - November 11. The day later expanded to honor the veterans of WWII. In 1954, the 83rd United States Congress amended the 1937 act, changed the name to Veterans Day and honored veterans of all wars.