World War I – known at the time as “The Great War” – officially ended when the Treaty of Versailles was signed on June 28, 1919, in the Palace of Versailles outside of 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.”
Veterans Day continues to be observed on November 11, regardless of what day of the week on which it falls. The restoration of the observance of Veterans Day to November 11 not only preserves the historical significance of the date, but helps focus attention on the important purpose of Veterans Day: A celebration to honor America’s veterans for their patriotism, love of county, and willingness to serve and sacrifice for the common good. (from the US Department of Veterans Affairs)
There is no apostrophe in “Veterans Day.” Why, you ask? Because it is not a day that “belongs” to veterans, it is a day for honoring all veterans. So, gentle reader, resist the urge to add an apostrophe.
Veterans Day vs. Memorial Day: Is there a difference? Oh, heck ya there is a difference! Memorial Day is for remembering and honoring military personnel who died in the service of their country. Veterans Day is set aside to thank and honor ALL those who served honorably in the military – in wartime or peacetime. Veterans Day is largely intended to thank LIVING veterans and to acknowledge their contribution to our country.
How to thank a Veteran. Some ideas for observing Veterans Day –
- Just showing up at a local event in your community. Attend that parade, go to the pancake breakfast at your local VFV.
- If you don’t normally display a flag at your home, you might want to have one out on Veterans Day. (retire the flag at sunset, unless you have a light on it.)
- Donate to a veteran focused charity.
- See some old dude in a “Veteran” baseball cap or some young man/woman in uniform – go up and tell them “Thank you for your service.” Ask the old guy about his service. I bet they’d love to share a story or two.
- Pay for a coffee or a meal if you see a veteran in a restaurant or coffee shop. What a lovely treat.
- Do you have a VA hospital near you? If so, stop in for a visit. You may want to call first and see if anyone could use a visit. Maybe you can adopt a veteran and visit often.
- Don’t confuse Veterans Day with Memorial Day. It is acceptable to say “Happy Veterans Day” (We don’t EVER say “Happy Memorial Day” – see prior article on this.)
We have the luxury of a 3-day weekend as this year Veterans Day falls on a Monday. Please remember that those currently serving do not get vacation days. Many are deployed, away from home and family.
Categorized in: General
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