This weekend, the United States will celebrate its 99th Veterans Day. President Woodrow Wilson initiated the tradition on the first anniversary of the end of The Great War (as World War I was known at the time), naming Nov. 11 Armistice Day. It was marked by a feeling of “solemn pride” for the military’s heroism, according to Newsweek, and was to be celebrated with parades and two minutes of reflection. Armistice Day became a legal holiday in 1938, and was renamed Veterans Day in 1954 to recognize those who served in World War II and the Korean War.
Tag: Veterans Day
The Wall Turns 35 This Veterans Day
In the nation’s capital, events will celebrate the 35th anniversary of the dedication of the Vietnam Veterans Memorial this week. Ticketed events will include an evening reception honoring the designer of the Wall, Maya Lin; a breakfast discussion with Lynn Novick, who directed the PBS miniseries The Vietnam War with Ken Burns; and a keynote speech from former Defense Secretary Chuck Hagel. The Wall will also host its annual Veterans Day service and reading of the names. Check the Vietnam Veterans of America’s VetsConnect site for more information on these and other Veterans Day events.
Giving Back on Veterans Day
Hundreds of businesses nationwide donate to veterans’ charities in the run-up to Veterans Day, according to Military Benefits, including Dunkin’ Donuts, Outback Steakhouse and Regal Cinemas. But year-round, proceeds from donations of used clothing and household goods made to ClothingDonations.org help honor and benefit thousands of veterans throughout the country. Schedule a pickup today and remember to go to a local parade this weekend to honor those who have served.
Kids Can Help Celebrate Veterans Day
Veterans Day is Saturday, Nov. 11, and schoolchildren can honor veterans as they learn through a variety of activities, says Kids Thank a Veteran. Ask kids to write a letter to a veteran of Vietnam or another conflict, or invite a veteran to speak about their service at a school or event. Assemble a care package for a current service member, or plan a field trip to a VA nursing home or hospital, the site suggests; active troops and aging veterans alike will appreciate the consideration.
#HelpOurVeterans
There are many ways you can help veterans this summer. You can donate clothes and other home goods to us. You can visit a wounded veteran in the hospital. You can deliver a meal to a veteran, or simply say, “Thank you.” Take a look at other ideas here.