Every year on November 11, the United States observes Veterans Day, a federal holiday paying heartfelt tribute to the more than eighteen million living military veterans who have served honorably in the United States Army, Marine Corps, Navy, Air Force, Space Force, and Coast Guard. Marked by nationwide parades, school educational programs, and the presidential wreath-laying ceremony at Arlington National Cemetery, Veterans Day is a vibrant affirmation of civic gratitude for peacetime and wartime service alike.
Federal Observance Highlights
- Legislative Transition: President Woodrow Wilson proclaimed Armistice Day in 1919; President Eisenhower signed legislation renaming it Veterans Day in 1954
- The National Ceremony: Presidential wreath-laying at 11:00 AM at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier in Arlington, Virginia
- Crucial Distinction: Memorial Day (May) honors fallen service members; Veterans Day (November) thanks all living veterans for their dedicated service
- Community Support: Free meals, retail discounts, and civic volunteer drives organized nationwide for service families
1. The Legislative Evolution from Armistice Day to Veterans Day
President Woodrow Wilson originally declared November 11 as Armistice Day in 1919, praising the heroism of American doughboys who fought in World War I. In 1938, the U.S. Congress enacted legislation declaring November 11 a legal federal holiday dedicated to world peace.
However, following the immense national mobilization of World War II and the Korean War, Kansas shoe repairman and WWII veteran Alvin J. King campaigned to expand the holiday to honor veterans of all American conflicts. Representative Edward Rees of Kansas introduced the federal bill, and on June 1, 1954, President Dwight D. Eisenhower signed Public Law 380, officially striking the word 'Armistice' and inserting 'Veterans' in its place. Eisenhower issued the first Veterans Day proclamation, urging the nation to 'reconsecrate ourselves to the task of promoting an enduring peace so that their efforts shall not have been in vain.'
2. Arlington National Cemetery and Nationwide Traditions
The focal point of national commemoration occurs at Arlington National Cemetery in Virginia. At exactly 11:00 AM on November 11, the President of the United States (or a designated representative) lays a presidential wreath at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier, followed by the bugle rendition of Taps and a solemn parade of flags inside the Memorial Amphitheater.
Across the nation, major cities host iconic parades, notably the New York City Veterans Day Parade (America's Parade)—the largest in the nation with over 20,000 marching veterans, military vehicles, and high school bands up Fifth Avenue. Educational institutions invite local veterans into classrooms to share oral histories, bridging generational divides and instilling civic values in youth.
3. Meaningful Ways to Honor Veterans on November 11
Demonstrate meaningful, lasting gratitude for veterans and military families in your community:
- Support Veteran Service Organizations: Donate to or volunteer with organizations like the Fisher House Foundation, Wounded Warrior Project, or Team Rubicon.
- Offer Employment Mentorship: Help transitioning veterans translate military leadership and logistics experience into civilian corporate resumes and career networks.
- Visit VA Hospitals and State Veterans Homes: Spend time talking with elderly or recovering veterans who may not have visiting family members nearby.
- Fly the American Flag: Display the Stars and Stripes proudly at your home or business in accordance with the United States Flag Code.
Explore Wishes & Thank-You Messages for Veterans Day
Discover our curated collection of 30+ patriotic messages, thank-you greetings, and social tributes for American service members.
