November 11th is a national holiday called Veterans Day. Veterans Day is to thank LIVING veterans for their service, to acknowledge that their contributions to our national security, freedom, and saving other innocent lives from wars are appreciated, and to underscore the fact that all those who served have sacrificed and done their duty. The Veterans Day National Ceremony is held each year on November 11 at Arlington National Cemetery. At 11 a.m., a color guard made up of members from each branch of the military renders honors to America’s war dead during a tradition-rich ceremony at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier.

The history behind Veterans Day is simple but not to ever be understated. In 1954, President Dwight D. Eisenhower signed a bill proclaiming November 11 as Veterans Day. In 1968, Congress moved Veterans Day to the fourth Monday in October. However, it became apparent that the date November 11, which was the date of the end of World War I, was historically significant to many Americans. As a result, Congress formally returned the observance of Veterans Day to its traditional date in 1978. 

Veterans Day is a day of mourning and a day of celebration for those American citizens who have bravely served in the military to protect our country. If someone you know has served in the military, make sure to show them some love and appreciation this Veterans day!