Veterans Day a long time American tradition

In May, we remember all of the men and women who have given their lives fighting for our country. On November 11, Americans remember all veterans who have served.

Veterans Day was first celebrated as Armistice Day, recognizing the end of the First World War. The War was officially over on June 28, 1919, after the Treaty of Versailles was signed. The fighting stopped months before the Treaty, when an armistice was put into place on the eleventh hour, of the eleventh day, of the eleventh month. It wasn't until 1926 that November 11, 1918, was recognized by Congress as the end of the war. In 1938, Armistice Day was made an official holiday, honoring the veterans of the First World War.

On June 1, 1954, after World War II and the Korean War, Congress changed the name of Armistice Day to Veterans Day, following the recommendation of many veteran organizations across the country. The holiday was adjusted to honor all American veterans, both surviving and deceased.

On October 8, 1954, President Dwight D. Eisenhower issued the first 'Veterans Day Proclamation,' which stated:

"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."

In 1968, Congress decided that a list of federal holidays, including Veterans Day, would be celebrated on a Monday. The intention was to spur on travel and family activities, which would help the economy. The new Veterans Day fell on the fourth weekend in October, but after three years of pushback, Congress moved the holiday back to November.

After another four years, it became apparent that Americans were firm on November 11's historical significance. In September of 1975, President Gerald Ford signed Public Law 94-97, returning Veterans Day to its original date, beginning in 1978.

Versions of Veterans Day are celebrated all over the world. Canada and Australia both know November 11 as 'Remembrance Day.' Canadians celebrate their veterans by wearing red poppy flowers. Australia's celebration is very comparable to the United States Memorial Day.

In Great Britain, Remembrance Day is observed on the Sunday closest to November 11. Parades, services, and two minutes of silence are dedicated to British veterans.

In the United States, Veterans Day is recognized with parades and ceremonies, sharing veterans' stories, and honoring not just veterans but also their families.