Each year on November 11, Americans pause to honor the men and women who have served in the United States Armed Forces. Veterans Day, rooted in history and steeped in tradition, serves as a solemn reminder of the sacrifices made by those who have worn the uniform.

Veterans Day traces its origins to the end of World War I. Known at the time as “The Great War,” the conflict ended with an armistice between the Allied nations and Germany. This agreement went into effect on the 11th hour of the 11th day of the 11th month of 1918.

In 1919, President Woodrow Wilson proclaimed Nov. 11 as Armistice Day, a day dedicated to the cause of world peace and to honor those who served in World War I. In 1938, Congress made Armistice Day a legal holiday.

“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…”

After World War II and the Korean War, Veterans’ service extended beyond the scope of the original holiday. In 1954, President Dwight D. Eisenhower signed legislation to change the name to Veterans Day, broadening the observance to honor veterans of all wars.

“In order to ensure proper and widespread observance of this anniversary, all Veterans, all Veterans’ organizations, and the entire citizenry will wish to join hands in the common purpose. Toward this end, I am designating the Administrator of Veterans’ Affairs as Chairman of a Veterans Day National Committee, which shall include such other persons as the Chairman may select, and which will coordinate at the national level necessary planning for the observance. I am also requesting the heads of all departments and agencies of the Executive branch of the Government to assist the National Committee in every way possible.” – President Dwight D. Eisenhower October 8, 1954. 

Today, Veterans Day is marked by ceremonies, parades, and tributes across the country. It is a day to thank those who have served and to reflect on the cost of freedom. Unlike Memorial Day, which honors service members who have died in defense of the country, Veterans Day recognizes all who have served honorably in the military.

How Soldiers’ Angels Celebrates Veterans Day

Organizations across the nation participate in Veterans Day observances, and Soldiers’ Angels is no exception. Through our Home of the Brave Campaign, we ensure that Veterans feel recognized and appreciated. The campaign works directly with the VA Center for Development and Civic Engagement (CDCE) and corporate partners to provide employees and employers the opportunity to show their gratitude for Veterans on or around Veterans Day.

Each year, our sponsors organize and contribute to celebrations within VA Facilities who have registered and shared the type of event they’d like. Whether it’s a luncheon, patient visits, thank you gifts, or even parades, our corporate partners go all out to ensure Veterans in their communities are celebrated. In 2023, in just over a week, Soldiers’ Angels Home of the Brave served 82 VA Medical facility sites in 35 states, plus Washington D.C. and Puerto Rico, 613 volunteers spent more than 3,846 hours to honor 18,253 Veterans. This National outreach helps remind Veterans that their sacrifices have not gone unnoticed.

As we celebrate Veterans Day, let us remember the rich history behind the holiday and the ongoing efforts to honor those who have served. Whether through national observances or personal gestures, every expression of gratitude contributes to the respect and appreciation owed to our nation’s Veterans. Learn more about how Soldiers’ Angels supports Veterans all year long (and join us) here.

 

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