Veterans Day

Veterans Day, a federal holiday in the United States, is an annual event that celebrates and honors military personnel. While Memorial Day honors those who have died in service, Veterans Day honors both living and deceased war veterans who served our country. Celebrations, parades and activities take place in communities across the nation while the official wreath-laying ceremony takes place at 11:00 a.m. at the Tomb of the Unknowns in Arlington National Cemetery.

When is Veterans Day?

Veterans Day is typically observed each year on Nov. 11, unless the day happens to fall on a weekend, then it is observed on the prior Friday or following Monday.

• Nov. 11, 2014

• Nov. 11, 2015

• Nov. 11, 2016

• Nov. 10, 2017

Veterans Day History

The holiday, originally called Armistice Day, was created to honor the end of World War I, which occurred during the 11th hour, on the 11th day of the 11th month - November 11. The day later expanded to honor the veterans of WWII. In 1954, the 83rd United States Congress amended the 1937 act, changed the name to Veterans Day and honored veterans of all wars.