Veterans Day...

Veterans Day is a U.S. federal holiday observed annually on November 11 to honor all those who have served in the U.S. Armed Forces, both in wartime and peacetime.

The holiday originated as Armistice Day to commemorate the end of World War I at 11 a.m. on November 11, 1918, and was renamed Veterans Day in 1954 to honor veterans of all wars. It is a day to thank living veterans for their service and patriotism, and it is distinct from Memorial Day, which honors those who died in military service.

• Purpose: To honor all U.S. military veterans for their service and sacrifice.

• Date: November 11th, to mark the end of World War I hostilities.

• Original name: Armistice Day, a day dedicated to world peace and the veterans of World War I.

• Renaming: In 1954, it was changed to Veterans Day to include veterans of all U.S. wars after the Korean War.

• Distinction: Veterans Day honors all who served, including those currently serving and those who have served in the past. Memorial Day specifically honors those who have died in service.