Every year on November 11th, the United States celebrates Veterans Day to honor individuals that have served in the military. Currently there are close to 20 million veterans in the U.S. Here’s what you need to know on this Veterans Day.
History
Veterans Day was originally called Armistice Day. President Woodrow Wilson declared that November 11th would be called Armistice Day since it was the day that the major combat stopped in World War I. It didn’t become a legal holiday until 1938 and wasn’t really celebrated until 1947. The term “Veterans Day” replaced “Armistice Day” in 1954.
Facts
– Unlike Memorial Day, Veterans Day is meant to honor all of those who have served in the military and not just those that have died while serving.
– In 1971 the fourth Monday in October became Veterans Day. It wasn’t until 1978 that it was changed back to being celebrated on November 11th.
-Not only is Veterans Day a state holiday, but it’s a federal one as well.
Parades and Ceremonies
The Veterans Day National Ceremony at Arlington Ceremony
Each year this ceremony starts at exactly 11 a.m. A wreath is laid on top of the Tomb of the Unknowns. A parade of colors is held and dignitaries speak.
Las Vegas Veterans Day Parade
This parade is the largest Veterans Day parade west of the Mississippi. It includes all of southern Nevada’s veteran’s organization, a variety of school groups and many different politicians. Some organizations from Arizona, Utah and California do participate in the Las Vegas Veterans Day Parade as well. The parade will begin at 10 a.m.
The America’s Parade in New York City
The America’s Parade is the largest event that takes place to honor veterans on Veterans Day. More than 600,000 are expected to be in attendance. There will be a large parade that will honor all branches of the military. It will feature floats that will highlight the military throughout the years. The opening ceremony begins at 10 a.m. and the parade will start shortly after that.
Throughout the entire country there are many different events that will be taking place on Veterans Day. If you can, try to make it to one of these events to show your support for those that have served in the military and fought for our freedom.
