Veterans Day

Veterans Day is celebrated on November 11th to honor all those who have served their country in difficult times. Almost every American has a relative who has given their health or life in service. The date is also dedicated to all current members of the armed forces.

History

Veterans Day was originally celebrated as Armistice Day, with the first observance taking place one year after the conclusion of the First World War in 1926. In 1945, the holiday was expanded to honor all veterans of the country.

Some establishments are closed on Veterans Day in observance of the holiday. Employers often invite veterans to special events, give them vacations, award them with recognition and financial incentives. Educational institutions often have activities to help the younger generation remember and honor the heroes of war and to learn the history of the wars to prevent similar events from occurring in the future.

Interesting facts

• There are approximately 20 million veterans in the United States, with California having the highest number and Texas in second.
• Half of all veterans suffer from psychological trauma and have problems with housing.
• More than 5 million veterans receive disability benefits, with 2 million being women.
• In 2018, veterans were involved in at least one general war.

How to take part

If you have a veteran friend, relative, or neighbor, invite them to dinner and ask them to tell stories from their service. Offer to help them if they need it. Re-tell their stories to others so that they can remember the feats they have done for the country. Sign up to a charitable organization to learn about the current issues facing veterans and offer financial or personal help if you can.

When is Veterans Day celebrated in 2023?

Veterans Day is observed on November 11 each year.

Observations