Observed annually on November 11th, Veterans Day recognition in the workplace is important to have a moment to reflect on soldiers who have both served and continued to serve. The holiday is celebrated to honor any person who was or is currently still in the United States Armed Forces. So be sure to thank a veteran for their service today.
Honoring Veterans - Quotes
“To our men and women in uniform, past, present, and future, God bless you and thank you.” - Anonymous
Veterans Day History
Originally the world recognized “Armistice Day.” This was in 1918 when on the 11th hour, of the 11th day, of the 11th month, the Allied Nation and Germany declared a peace agreement. Many countries recognize this as a holiday the following year. After the Great War America began to recognize it as a Federal holiday in 1938, where it was then called Veterans Day. Here’s a brief timeline on Veterans Day history:
- 1914 - 1918 - WWI
- 1917 - America joins WWI
- 1919 - Woodrow Wilson declares November 11 to be Armistice Day
- 1938 - Congress makes Nov. 11 a national holiday
- 1941 - 1945 WWII
- 1968 - Congress moves Veterans Day to October
- 1978 - Veterans Day observance returns to Nov. 11
The First Veterans Day Holiday
Originally the plan was to have a brief hold on businesses around 11am to pause for a moment and reflect on the service of our soldiers. In 1919 this translated to parades being held in honor of the servicemen who had served. Several public meetings were also held to speak and honor the soldiers, both living and deceased.
Veterans Day vs Memorial Day
The simple difference is also the most morbid. Whereas Veterans Day is meant to celebrate those who have served and are currently serving their country, Memorial Day is meant to honor those who have given their lives in service to the country. This is for all the soldiers who didn’t make it back home.
Veterans Day Observed 2017
Why do we celebrate Veterans day? To pay our respects to those brave men and women who have served in the United States Armed Forces. It is also a time to not just thank a veteran, but to also keep tabs on the VA. Countless opportunities await veterans for military jobs, loans, medical benefits, news, and even fitness goals. So when you say ”thank you veterans” make sure that they are also getting the benefits allowed to them.
Any Veterans Day stories you’d like to share? Let us know in the comments below! Don’t forget to follow us on Facebook for more great tips and inspiration!
Continue Reading:
