Thank you to all of those who served our great nation, whether in war or in keeping the peace. Veterans Day is a well-known American holiday, but there are some misconceptions about it. Did you know these facts?
- Veterans Day is not the same as Memorial Day. It’s easy to get this confused. Memorial Day is the time to remember those who gave their lives for our country, particularly in battle. Veterans Day honors all of those who have served the country in war or peace. However, we should especially take this day to thank living veterans for their sacrifices.
- Veterans Day was originally called “Armistice Day,” commemorating the end of World War I. World War I officially ended when the Treaty of Versailles was signed on June 28, 1919. However, the Allies and Germany put into effect an armistice on the “eleventh hour of the eleventh day of the eleventh month.”
- It was hoped that the Treaty of Versailles would end all wars, but we know that was not true. After the end of World War I, many more Americans were called to serve in war and in peace. To recognize this contribution, the name was changed to what we now call, “Veterans Day.”
- It is not remembered any longer on the “eleventh hour of the eleventh day of the eleventh month.” Congress passed the Uniform Holiday Bill in 1968 to ensure that some federal holidays (including Veterans Day) would be celebrated on a Monday, creating a three day weekend.
- Finally, there is no apostrophe in “Veterans Day.” It is not a day that belongs to one veteran. It is a day for honoring all veterans. No apostrophe is needed.
Anyway, THANK YOU again to all veterans! We cannot say that enough.
