Each year, November 11th is reserved as a federal holiday intended to celebrate all of those who served in the U.S. military.
The origins of Veterans Day can be traced back to 1919, when, at the end of World War I, President Woodrow Wilson declared November 11th “Armistice Day” to commemorate the end of the of “The Great War.” The signing of the armistice occurred on the eleventh hour of the eleventh day of the eleventh month. In 1954, Congress approved an amendment to change Armistice Day to Veterans Day. The spelling of “Veterans Day” by the U.S. government does not include an apostrophe, in order for the word “Veteran” to be used as an adjective.
As a federal holiday, government buildings, post offices and banks are closed. In years past, most Americans were given the day off work to celebrate. Nowadays, it is estimated that fewer than 20% of Americans will be given the day off by their employer. That is a trend that we, as a generation of Americans who have witnessed more than thirteen years of war, might want to change, especially for Veterans.
Throughout the nation, Veterans Day is observed with patriotic events, including parades, community rallies and social gatherings, all designed to thank all Veterans, from all generations, for their military service. Many Veterans organizations, including the American Legion, American Veterans (AMVETS), Disabled American Veterans (DAV), and the Veterans of Foreign Wars (VFW), hold their own celebrations and gatherings with the support of their local communities.
A number of retailors and large restaurant chains also offer Veterans Day specials. The MilitaryConnection.com website offers a substantial list of Veteran and Military Deals & Discounts, including Veterans Day specials. (Please note that deals are only valid at participating vendors, and most all deals will require proof of service.)
Perhaps the best way to observe Veterans Day is by actually CELEBRATING it. Attend a party… better yet THROW a party: invite your friends, especially your Veteran friends, fly the Stars and Stripes, hang some red, white and blue bunting, play some patriotic music, and eat some great American food. Let Veterans know that you care.
Veterans, be sure to show your military pride. If you separated under honorable conditions after serving during a time of war, you are authorized to wear your military uniform at weddings, funerals and patriotic functions, as detailed in Executive Order 10554. Even if you don’t wear your uniform, be sure to wear some Veteran pride apparel. Wear your medals, a military ball cap, a t-shirt, something displaying that you are proud to have served. If Veterans don’t celebrate the holiday, then what’s the point?
Veterans Day is a holiday. By definition, a holiday is an occasion to take a break from normal labors to celebrate or commemorate. This November 11th, whether you have the day off or have to work, be sure to step away from your everyday routine and celebrate, any way you want. It’s your right… thanks to Veterans.
Military Connection proudly serves those who serve in the Army, Navy, Air Force, Marines, Coast Guard, Guard and Reserve, Veterans and their Families. We are the go to site for Veteran Employment and information on Veteran education. Militaryconnection.com provides Veterans with and Directory of Employers, a Job Board, information on the Post-9/11 GI Bill, and a blog that offers Veterans boundless information. Be sure to visit Militaryconnection.com, the go to site.
Military Connection: CELEBRATE Veterans Day: By Navy Veteran Joe Silva
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