What Are 5 Facts About Veterans Day? Quick Insight For 2023

Last Updated on September 7, 2023 by Kimberlee Johnson

On Veterans Day, you can hear the distant sounds of marching bands and see flags waving in the wind. 

It’s a day of reverence and reflection when we honor the heroes who have selflessly served our nation. 

As a witness to these solemn ceremonies, I’ve come to appreciate the significance of this day, a time to recognize the sacrifices made by our veterans. 

But beyond the barbecues, speeches, and parades, what are the five facts about Veterans Day? 

With that, I’ll share the five interesting facts that make Veterans Day an essential part of our collective memory.

5 Important Facts About Veterans Day

1. Veterans Day Was Called Armistice Day

Veterans Day, initially called Armistice Day, was established to honor the end of World War I. 

This significant event occurred on November 11, 1918, marking the cessation of hostilities and the beginning of a lasting peace.

2. The Absence Of Apostrophe

Unlike many holidays that use an apostrophe to indicate possession, Veterans Day deliberately lacks an apostrophe. 

“How important it is for us to recognize and celebrate our heroes and she-roes!”

– Maya Angelou, American Memoirist

This distinctive choice reflects its broader purpose of recognizing all veterans collectively without singling out any particular individual.

Find out what events occurred in Washington, DC, on Veterans Day here.

3. It’s Different From Memorial Day

While Memorial Day [1] commemorates military personnel who lost their lives in service to the nation, Veterans Day is dedicated to honoring all veterans who have served and continue to serve, encompassing various branches and roles.

But which three holidays do veterans celebrate?

4. Global Observance

Beyond the United States, numerous other countries observe similar days of remembrance for veterans. 

These occasions often share common themes, uniting nations in recognizing the sacrifices made by their armed forces.

Find out what time the Veterans Day parade will start here.

5. October Celebration

Veterans Day was temporarily observed on the fourth Monday of October, beginning in 1971, when the Uniform Monday Holiday Act was passed.

However, this change was resisted, leading to a detachment from its historical significance. 

In 1978, the original date of November 11 was reinstated, reinstating the deep-rooted connection with the armistice and veterans it honors.

Also Read:

• How Do You Commemorate Veterans Day At Work?
• How Many Years Of Service Are Required To Be Considered A Veteran?

What Other Significant Facts Exist About Veterans?

• Veterans Population: Around 19 million U.S. veterans, comprising approximately 10% of the adult population, have valiantly defended the nation across various conflicts, contributing significantly to its safety.
• Women Veterans: An inspiring record-high 13% of all veterans are women, exemplifying their remarkable courage and dedication within the U.S. military ranks.
• Congressional Recognition: In 1926, Congress passed a resolution establishing Veterans Day as an annual observance. It officially became a federal holiday in 1938, reinforcing the nation’s commitment to honoring veterans.
• Tribute to Atomic Veterans: President Ronald Reagan designated July 16, 1983, National Atomic Veterans Day to honor military personnel involved in nuclear tests or who served around Hiroshima and Nagasaki. President Joe Biden reinstated this honor in 2021 and established it as an annual recognition through legislative action.
• Inaugural Celebration: On November 11, 1947, the first official Veterans Day celebration occurred in Birmingham, Alabama. Raymond Weeks, a veteran from World War II, organized the celebration, which served as a model for the current national holiday.

Find out the meaning of the green light for Veterans Day here.

What Colors Represent Veterans Day?

The red and blue colors represent Veterans Day. It’s used as the color for the Veterans Awareness Ribbon to raise public awareness for various veterans’ causes. 

“Every veteran is a story, a chapter in the larger narrative of our nation’s history. On Veterans Day, we celebrate not only their service but the tales they carry.” 

– Howkapow Gift Site

The blue within the ribbon signifies veterans’ dedicated service to the United States, while the red evokes the sacrifice and bloodshed of those who bravely defended the nation. 

This powerful combination of colors embodies veterans’ unwavering commitment and profound sacrifices throughout history.

What Do Veterans Deserve To Have?

Veterans rightly deserve a package encompassing top-notch and secure healthcare [2]. 

Beyond that, they should have access to benefits and services that provide a safety net against the challenges they face during their military service. 

Equally important is education, which sets them up for success in their next chapter. Safe and affordable housing should be a given, ensuring a stable foundation. 

Lastly, veterans should find meaningful and satisfying employment opportunities recognizing their skills and contributions. 

Check out these gift ideas to give to a veteran for Veterans Day here.

What Are The Important Values That Veterans Have?

Veterans embody a set of crucial values summarized by “I CARE”: Integrity, Commitment, Advocacy, Respect, and Excellence. 

These core values guide all interactions, reminding veterans and society that profound care for those served is at the heart of it all. 

These values show veterans’ dedication to their jobs, communities, and country. But how can you explain to kids about Veterans Day?

FAQs

Key Takeaways

As we wrap up this exploration of Veterans Day, it’s clear that this is more than just a date on the calendar. 

From its origins as Armistice Day to the present, Veterans Day has stood as a testament to the sacrifices made by those who put their lives on the line for our nation. 

Remember, Memorial Day is for those who died in service, while Veterans Day is for all veterans, living and gone, showing unity. 

Lastly, the evolution of Veterans Day, from its brief October sojourn to its renewed focus on November 11, echoes the reverence we hold for the historical significance of that date.

References:

1. https://www.nationalgeographic.com/culture/article/memorial-day-1

2. https://www.news-medical.net/health/Benefits-of-Primary-Health-Care.aspx