To understand what Veterans Day is truly about, one must look through history. On Nov. 11, 1918, on the 11th hour of the 11th day of the 11th month, an armistice was signed between the Allies and Germany at the end of World War I.
According to History.com, “Commemorated in many countries as Armistice Day the following year, November 11th became a federal holiday in the United States in 1938. In the aftermath of World War II and the Korean War, Armistice Day became known as Veterans Day.”
During World War II, over 16 million Americans enlisted to fight, and over five million joined during the Korean War.
In 1954, President Eisenhower changed the name from Armistice Day to Veterans Day on June 4, 1954. The name changed, and the day turned into honoring all the men and women who have fought courageously for America in all previous and ongoing wars or who have given service to the military.
“For those that signed a blank check up to an including their lives, there is no greater way to thank them than to acknowledge what they did,” said Veteran Master Sergeant Scott Yates in his thoughts on Veterans Day. “Give them the appreciation they never expected! Honor the vets on Veterans Day and every day.”
Since then, there has been confusion about the day, for many believed there should be a three-day weekend. In 1968, Congress signed the Uniform Monday Holiday Act, saying there would always be a three-day weekend on Washington’s Birthday, Memorial Day, Veterans Day and Columbus Day. The first Veterans Day that was changed was set to be on Oct. 25, 1971.
Many states did not like this and celebrated Veterans Day on its original date. In 1975, President Ford signed a new law stating Veterans Day would be placed on its original date, and if it fell on a weekend day, the federal government would recognize either the previous Friday or the following Monday as a federal holiday.
Confusion is widespread about the day, with many thinking Veterans Day and Memorial Day were the same thing. Veterans Day celebrates the people who have served in the U.S. Military, living or dead, while Memorial Day specifically celebrates the members of the U.S. military who have died while in service, combat, retired or injuries during a battle that caused their deaths.
“It makes me feel appreciative,” said Veteran Sergeant First Class Bradley Merril when sharing his thoughts on Veterans Day.
Veterans Day is a day to celebrate all those who have served in the armed forces. For those veterans who don’t have family, citizens of the U.S. are instead their support system. Veterans Day holds so much history and celebration, and it is essential to do your own research to show respect and thanks to the people who have served in the armed forces.
To celebrate Veterans Day, there is an Annual Veterans Day Celebration on Nov. 9 at the Eagle High Auditorium, along with many parades celebrating those who have served America.
