Veterans Day is observed annually on November 11, and with the holiday falling on a Monday this year, several closures will take place.
This day honors living veterans who served in the military, with its origins dating back to 1919. It was established from the commemoration of Armistice Day, marking the end of hostilities between the Allies and Germany, which concluded on the eleventh hour of the eleventh day of the eleventh month. Originally intended to signify the end of “the war to end all wars,” Veterans Day is consistently observed on November 11, regardless of the day of the week.
President Woodrow Wilson initiated the first celebration in 1919, which included parades and a moment of silence at 11 a.m.
While not all services will be closed, the designation of Veterans Day as a federal holiday leads to various changes for businesses. Here’s what to expect during the holiday:
– **United States Postal Service**: As a federal holiday, mail will not be delivered, and the postal service will be closed on Monday. However, UPS and FedEx will remain operational, though some services may be altered.
– **Banks**: Many banks will also be closed, along with federal courts and non-essential government offices.
– **Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV)**: In Illinois, DMV offices, including those for driver’s licenses and other Secretary of State services, will be closed.
– **Schools**: According to the Illinois State Board of Education, Veterans Day is not recognized as a “legal school holiday.” Nonetheless, districts have the option to celebrate it. If they do, it is designated as a “no attendance” day, meaning that students will not engage in learning as determined by the local school board. Other “no attendance” days include Martin Luther King Jr. Day, Lincoln’s Birthday, Casimir Pulaski Day, and Columbus Day. Looking ahead, Chicago Public Schools will not observe Veterans Day as a holiday, and classes will be in session.
This observance serves not only as a time to reflect on the sacrifices made by veterans but also allows various sectors to acknowledge their contributions, with the hope that communities come together to support and honor those who have served. As citizens participate in their own commemorations, the spirit of gratitude and remembrance will undoubtedly resonate, fostering a stronger connection between veterans and the communities they have protected.