The History Behind Veterans Day

Veterans Day, which occurs every year on November 11th is a day that American's honor the "eleventh hour of the eleventh day of the eleventh month," which signaled the end of World War I. Today, Veterans Day is a day that pays tribute to all American veterans - living or dead - but especially gives thanks to living veterans who served their country honorably during war or peacetime.

First celebrated as "Armistice Day" on November 11, 1919, 11/11 became an official national holiday in 1938 after Congress passed a resolution for an annual observance of the day. However, it wasn't until 1954 when President Dwight D. Eisenhower changed the name of the day from Armistice Day to Veterans Day following the end of the Korean War and World War 2.

But in 1968, the Uniforms Holiday Bill was passed by Congress which moved the day to the fourth Monday of October to ensure that federal employees would receive a three-day weekend. However, many states didn't agree with the decision and continued to observe the day on the original date, November 11th. In 1978, President Gerald R. Ford returned the date to November 11th because of the important historical significance of the date - "the eleventh hour of the eleventh day of the eleventh month."

This day is more than just a day off from work or school - it's a day to honor and remember those who have given the ultimate sacrifice to protect our country's freedom and rights. Every Veterans Day and Memorial Day, Arlington National Cemetery, which is home to the graves of over 400,000 people who mostly served in our military, holds an annual memorial service. For more on their services, which are mostly free and open to the public, click here.

And to those who have bravely served our country in our past and in the present, Verity Group thanks you for your service. It is because of you that we can enjoy safety and freedom in our great country.