The History of Veterans Day
November 11th marks a very important holiday in our country’s history, Veterans Day. Many don’t remember the actual history behind this holiday. On November 11, 1919, President Wilson coined it “Armistice Day,” in honor of the first anniversary of the end of World War I. He reflected on his proclamation by stating:
To us in America, the reflections of Armistice Day will be filled with solemn pride in the heroism of those who died in the country’s service and with gratitude for the victory, both because of the thing from which it has freed us and because of the opportunity it has given America to show her sympathy with peace and justice in the councils of the nations…
On May 13, 1938, Congress passed an act that officially made the 11th of November of each year a legal holiday dedicated to honoring those who fought in World War I.
In 1954, after the end of World War II, the 83rd Congress struck out the word “Armistice” and replaced it with “Veterans,” at the urging of the veterans service organizations. By June 1st, 1954, November 11th officially became Veterans Day.
Why is Veterans Day Important?
Veterans Day is a day to honor those who have served our great country, were discharged under conditions other than dishonorable, and remember the great sacrifices they made while doing so. All too frequently, this day gets confused with Memorial Day, which is the day set aside to remember and honor veterans who died in all wars, those who sacrificed their lives—whereas, Veterans Day pays tribute to all American veterans. It’s important to honor all those who served in all wars, and that’s exactly what we celebrate on this day. Our brave men and women in the armed forces are many times deployed in harsh climates and often aren’t able to join their families during the holiday season or any other time.
Additionally, Veterans Day is a day to give thanks and honor those who have faithfully answered the call of duty. Honoring our veterans is important, so make sure you do so with the following ideas.
1. Give back to local VA centers.
For many veterans, the VA Center is critical, because it provides them with the assistance and services they need and have rightfully earned. These centers can always use assistance, so consider contacting your local VA Center to donate or volunteer your time to a veteran in need. Even better, young adults are able to enroll in the student volunteer program, so be sure to spread the message around your community! This program helps students receive skills in different fields, while also giving back to our country’s heroes.
2. Watch or Join In a Veterans Day Parade.
There are a variety of parades and ceremonies that happen on Veterans Day, so why not attend a local event? Or better yet, join in and shake the hands of your local veterans! Just make sure that the event is open to the public. Some events are only open to veterans and their families.
3. Proudly fly Old Glory.
Nothing is more patriotic than flying Old Glory. Our insurance agency believes flags should be flown and displayed all year round, but most importantly on Veterans Day. By flying the American flag, you’re flying the colors our veterans sacrificed for and showing gratitude for their service. Don’t forget, every year Paradiso Insurance provides replacement flags for anyone who brings in their retired flags. All of our flags are 100% made in America and we also ensure that your retired flags receive proper disposal.
4. Send a thank you card or letter.
Honoring our veterans with letters or cards is a great way to show support on Veterans Day. Many veterans aren’t thanked enough for their service and sacrifice, and an unexpected handwritten letter or card in the mail will certainly bring a smile to their face. You don’t have to do it alone either; have your friends and family get involved too!
Once you’ve finished, don’t forget to send them to someone who has served. If you don’t happen to know any veterans, ask around your local community or send it through a local charity. In fact, there are a variety of outreach and legion programs that work with veterans in many small towns and urban areas.
Help us make Veterans Day special for all those who have earned it. Our insurance agency is currently running a donation program to help assist veterans in need. During the month of November, you can “high-five a veteran” by stopping