Veterans Day: History, Facts & Insights

This is an in-depth look at all the must-know facts about Veterans Day (2024) 🗓️ that no one tells you about. Veterans Day is observed on November 11th.

Among the information you’ll find below: the history of Veterans Day, activities to do on and how to observe this holiday, as well as intriguing facts you may want to know about Veterans Day.

📅 What day is Veterans Day 2024?

In 2024, Veterans Day is on Saturday, November 11th. It is the 2nd Saturday in November; in 2024, it is Monday. There are until the next observance. You also can learn all the fun details and facts about November 11, 2023, that you might not be aware of.

📜 Veterans Day History

In 1945, Raymond Weeks, a World War II veteran, suggested expanding Armistice Day to honor all soldiers, not just those who died in World War I. After receiving support from General Dwight Eisenhower, Weeks organized the first Veterans Day event in Alabama. He continued to organize the event every year until his death in 1985 and was recognized with the Presidential Citizenship Medal by President Reagan in 1982. Weeks was later referred to as the “Father of Veterans Day” by Elizabeth Dole.

In 1954, Congressman Ed Rees introduced a bill to establish Veterans Day as a federal holiday. President Eisenhower signed the measure into law, officially recognizing November 11 as a day to honor all American military veterans. The 83rd United States Congress revised the Act of 1938 to remove the word “armistice” and replace it with “veterans” to reflect the broader purpose of the holiday. Congressman Rees received the inaugural National Veterans Award for his efforts in making Veterans Day a federal holiday.

The date of Veterans Day was changed to the fourth Monday of October in 1971 as part of the Uniform Monday Holiday Act, but it was later restored to November 11 by President Gerald R. Ford in 1975. The federal government observes the holiday on a Friday if it falls on a Saturday or on a Monday if it falls on a Sunday. Non-government businesses have the choice to remain open or close for the holiday.

In 2001, the week of November 11 to November 17 was designated as National Veterans Awareness Week. This was done through a resolution by the United States Senate to promote teaching elementary and high school students about the sacrifices and contributions made by veterans.

✅ Veterans Day Facts

🔖 Female veterans
In the United States, women comprise only 9% of the total veteran population.

🔖 Leading states
As of 2019, Alaska, Wyoming, and Virginia have the largest proportions of veterans among their populations.

🔖 Many have served in at least one war
As of 2018, there were about 18.2 million veterans who had actively participated in at least one conflict during their military service.

👍 Why Is Veterans Day Important

According to official figures, an estimated 20% of Iraq and Afghanistan veterans suffer from post-traumatic stress disorder or serious depression. You’d be shocked at how much it means to veterans to be recognized and appreciated by civilians for their contributions and sacrifices.

While our military is frequently associated with conflict, most veterans will tell you that they risked their lives to protect our fundamental liberties and that they love peace much more than war. Few people who have witnessed the true horrors of war want to rush into it, and Veterans Day reminds all of us to consider the significance of harmony in our daily interactions and lives.

Veterans suffer disproportionate rates of homelessness, school attainment gaps, difficulty finding work, and frequently have to deal with terrible wounds. Post-traumatic stress disorder makes it difficult for individuals to reintegrate into regular society in many circumstances. By knowing these issues, we can all work together to ensure that veterans have the best opportunity to live a healthy and productive life after their service.

🙂 How To Observe Veterans Day

⚡ Offer freebies for veterans
If you are a company owner or employee, one fantastic way to demonstrate your support for veterans is by offering them free items on Veterans Day. Whether your company provides tax preparation services or simply a cup of coffee, there are various ways you can express gratitude to veterans. What actions can your company take today to show appreciation towards a veteran?

⚡ Hire a veteran
Veterans often face difficulties in finding employment due to their lack of readiness for civilian careers and misconceptions about the kind of work and pay they can expect. However, it is important to acknowledge that many military personnel have extensive experience leading soldiers in war zones, often serving on multiple deployments, which makes them highly skilled leaders and employees.

⚡ Go for a run
Consider participating in a sponsored run for an organization like Houses for Troops, dedicated to constructing homes for disabled veterans. They offer support in fundraising efforts, allowing you to concentrate on completing the race and raising as many funds as you can to support our deserving veterans.

📅 When is Veterans Day?

See all 🔗 November holidays, including 🔗 Federal and other 🔗 Historical holidays.

We will continue to update this page with new information and must-know facts about Veterans Day. So be sure to check back soon.