Veterans Day is observed every year on November 11, and this year, as the federal holiday fell on a Monday, various closures were expected.
This important day honors living veterans who have served in the military and has its roots dating back to 1919.
The holiday originated from the commemoration of Armistice Day, according to the Department of Veterans Affairs, marking the cessation of hostilities between the Allied nations and Germany at the eleventh hour of the eleventh day of the eleventh month. It was envisioned as a moment to conclude “the war to end all wars,” and it consistently occurs on November 11, regardless of the day of the week.
The first celebration was led by President Woodrow Wilson in 1919, featuring parades and a brief pause in business activities starting at 11 a.m.
While not everything will be closed on this holiday, the federal designation brings about several changes for businesses.
Here’s a summary of the closures expected during the holiday:
– **United States Postal Service**: As Veterans Day is a federal holiday, there will be no mail delivery and the USPS will be closed on Monday. However, UPS and FedEx will remain open, although some parts of their services may have been adjusted.
– **Banks**: Many banks will be closed, along with federal courts and non-essential government offices.
– **DMV**: In Illinois, driver license facilities and other offices of the Secretary of State will be closed.
– **Schools**: The Illinois State Board of Education notes that Veterans Day is not considered a “legal school holiday.” However, districts may choose to observe it, deeming it a day of “no attendance,” meaning no students participate in learning as determined by local school boards. Other “no attendance” days include Martin Luther King Jr. Day, Lincoln’s Birthday, Casimir Pulaski Day, and Columbus Day. According to the 2024-25 calendar for Chicago Public Schools, Veterans Day will not be observed as a holiday, which means schools will be in session.
In conclusion, while Veterans Day leads to some closures and modified schedules, it remains a significant occasion to honor those who served. Communities and individuals can celebrate this day by recognizing the sacrifices of veterans, perhaps through local events or personal reflections, thereby ensuring the spirit of Veterans Day is upheld even amidst the changes.