The History of Veterans Day
This year, why not celebrate Veterans Day in a Meaningful Way? According to the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs, the history of Veterans Day began with World War I. World War I was known at the time as “The Great War.” The war officially ended when the Treaty of Versailles was signed on June 28, 1919, in the Palace of Versailles outside the town of Versailles, France. However, fighting ceased seven months earlier when an armistice or temporary cessation of hostilities, between the Allied nations and Germany went into effect on the eleventh hour of the eleventh day of the eleventh month. For that reason, November 11, 1918, is generally regarded as the end of “the war to end all wars.”
Celebrate Veterans Day in a Meaningful Way
Want to celebrate Veterans Day, but you’re not sure how? Military.com offers some unique and appropriate ways to honor a veteran this Veterans Day.
1. Attend an Event
Attend a Veterans Day Parade or another veteran service event in your area.
2. Donate
Donate your time, money, or support to a local veteran’s organization.
3. Wave a Flag
What better day to wave a flag? Just make sure you know the proper rules for displaying a flag.
4. Talk to a Veteran
Most of us know someone who served, and today is a great day to talk to them. Use your best judgment if you speak with a veteran – don’t ask intrusive questions. Veterans Day is a time to let them talk about their experience, such as how long served, which branch, and memories they may want to share.
5. Send a Card
Send a “thank you” card to a veteran you know, or send one to a military installation. A simple postcard may seem like a small gesture, but recognizing a soldier’s service goes a long way.
7. Get Outdoors
Take a veteran or military family out to explore on Veterans Day. National Parks offer free admission on Veterans Day.
