By Adela Oldham – for Gelbman Law
Originally called “Armistice Day” in reference to the November 11, 1918 armistice that ended the fighting of World War I, Veterans Day took on its current name after World War II and the Korean war to honor all American Veterans of all wars. Although it is often confused with Memorial Day, which honors those who gave their lives for our country, Veterans Day honors all veterans, alive or dead, who have served during war or peacetime.
While Veterans Day is celebrated today on the anniversary of the armistice, its date has been historically a point of contention. In 1968, the Uniform Holiday Bill was signed with the intention of shifting several public holidays to be celebrated on Mondays. This bill attempted to move Veterans Day to the fourth Monday of every October. However, this received a lot of backlash and many states continued to celebrate Veterans Day on November 11th. In 1975, Veterans Day was officially moved back to its original date.
Today, Veterans Day is celebrated on November 11th with the National Veterans Day Ceremony at Arlington National Cemetery which is intended to honor and express gratitude to all those who have served in the United States Armed Forces. According to the Virginia Office of Public and Intergovernmental Affairs, Veterans Day is:
“a celebration to honor America’s veterans for their patriotism, love of country, and willingness to serve and sacrifice for the common good.”
As with every holiday, it is easy to lose sight of the historical importance of Veterans Day due to commercialization of the date through the creation of promotions and sales aimed at veterans and the families of veterans. This year keep in mind the historical importance of November 11th, as well as the crucial role of veterans of all segments of the United States Armed Forces in the safety of the United States of America.
Doris Gelbman is a Certified Veterans’ Affairs Attorney. If you need help with Veterans benefits, call to set up your free initial consultation.
Sources-
.va.gov/opa/vetsday/vetdayhistory.asp
https://www.defense.gov/explore/story/article/1675470/5-facts-to-know-about-veterans-day/
