Every year on November 11, the United States commemorates Veterans Day, which traces its origins to a treaty established at the conclusion of World War I in 1918. This war was initially viewed as “the war to end all wars,” as noted on the official site of the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs. However, the war was not officially concluded until the signing of the Treaty of Versailles on June 28, 1919, just outside of Paris. The fighting had stopped seven months earlier with the enactment of an armistice, a temporary cessation of hostilities between the Allied nations and Germany.
Veterans Day serves to highlight its primary purpose: honoring the patriotism, dedication, and sacrifices made by those who served in the U.S. military.
It was President Woodrow Wilson who declared November 11, 1919, as the first commemoration of Armistice Day to honor World War I veterans. Wilson remarked on this significant day that, “For us in the United States, the reflections on Armistice Day will be filled with solemn pride for the heroism of those who died in the service of the country and gratitude for the victory…”
A law passed on May 13, 1938, designated November 11 each year as a legal holiday. If the date falls on a Saturday, the holiday is observed on the preceding Friday; if it falls on a Sunday, it is celebrated on the following Monday.
In 1954, legislation was amended to change “Armistice” to “Veterans,” thus including all American veterans from all wars. Later that same year, on October 8, President Dwight D. Eisenhower issued the first “Veterans Day Proclamation,” calling for a widespread and fitting celebration of this occasion by uniting all veterans and organizations.
Today, Veterans Day is marked across all states with tributes, parades, and ceremonies. The most significant of these events takes place at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier in Arlington National Cemetery, just a short distance from Washington, D.C.
As we reflect on Veterans Day, it is a time not only to honor the bravery and sacrifice of our servicemen and women but also to foster a spirit of unity and dedication to peace.
This day serves as a powerful reminder of the importance of patriotism and the collective efforts of a nation to support those who have defended its freedom. By participating in commemorative events, we can all play a part in expressing our gratitude and ensuring that the sacrifices made by our veterans will not be forgotten.