NATIONAL DAYHISTORY & MILITARY

Veterans Day

This Veterans Day, we come together to celebrate the brave individuals who have served our country.

NOV11

Wednesday, November 11Every year on November 11

days to go

Roots: Originally Armistice Day, established in 1919
Vibe: A day of gratitude and remembrance.
Also on Nov 11: Sundae Day · Remembrance Day · International Origami Day
Hashtag: #VeteransDay

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3 ways to celebrate

AT HOME

Thank a veteran

Call or visit a veteran you know. Say thanks and mean it.

WITH FRIENDS

Volunteer together

Spend the day helping at a veterans organization. Service honors service.

AT WORK OR SCHOOL

Invite a veteran speaker

Ask a veteran to share their story. Listen with respect and gratitude.

Plan ahead

Veterans Day is observed on November 11 every year. Here is where it lands for the next ten years, handy for planners, marketers and party people.

2026Wed, Nov 11this year

2027Thu, Nov 11

2028Sat, Nov 11

2029Sun, Nov 11

2030Mon, Nov 11

2031Tue, Nov 11

2032Thu, Nov 11

2033Fri, Nov 11

2034Sat, Nov 11

2035Sun, Nov 11

2036Tue, Nov 11

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Fast facts

About 15.7 millionVeterans in the U.S.

1954The first Veterans Day was observed in 1954.

The story

Veterans Day, observed annually on November 11, honors military veterans who have served in the United States Armed Forces. Originally known as Armistice Day, it commemorated the end of World War I in 1918. In 1954, President Dwight D. Eisenhower officially changed the name to Veterans Day to honor all American veterans, not just those who served in World War I. This day is marked with various ceremonies, parades, and events nationwide, fostering a sense of gratitude for those who have served our country.

Read the full story

The significance of Veterans Day extends beyond ceremonies and parades. It serves as a reminder of the sacrifices made by military personnel, about 15.7 million veterans live in the United States today, each with unique stories and experiences. Many communities engage in activities to support veterans, such as fundraising for local veteran services, providing care packages, or organizing outreach programs to help veterans reintegrate into civilian life. These efforts highlight the societal responsibility to honor and support those who have served.

In addition to commemorative events, many Americans choose to observe Veterans Day by volunteering or donating to organizations dedicated to helping veterans. Groups like the Wounded Warrior Project and the American Legion provide essential services, including mental health support, job training, and housing assistance. Such contributions help ensure that veterans receive the recognition and resources they deserve long after their service has ended.

As we reflect on Veterans Day, it’s essential to remember the importance of acknowledging not only the sacrifices made in the line of duty but also the ongoing struggles many veterans face. The day serves as a call to action for all Americans to support those who have served, ensuring their stories are told and their needs are met. By actively engaging with the veteran community, we can create a more inclusive society that honors their legacy every day of the year.

Did you know?

Historical Significance

Veterans Day coincides with the anniversary of the end of World War I.

Global Observance

Many countries observe similar days for their veterans.

First Veterans Day Parade

Raymond Weeks organized the first national celebration in 1947 in Birmingham, Alabama.

Veterans Affairs

The U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs was established in 1930.

Veteran Population

Women veterans are the fastest-growing segment of the veteran population.

Poppy Symbolism

The red poppy flower symbolizes remembrance for soldiers who died.

Presidential Proclamations

Every year, the President issues a proclamation to honor veterans.

Around the world

Every culture celebrates a little differently.

USUnited StatesVeterans Day is a federal holiday, celebrated nationwide.
GBUnited KingdomRemembrance Day is observed on the same date, honoring British veterans.
AUAustraliaANZAC Day serves a similar purpose, honoring Australian and New Zealand veterans.
CACanadaRemembrance Day is also acknowledged in Canada on November 11.
FRFranceArmistice Day commemorates the end of WWI, also on November 11.
DEGermanyNational Day of Mourning is observed to honor all victims of war.