Veterans Day is a federal holiday celebrated in the United States every year on November 11. In 1918, November 11 marked the end of fighting in World War I. Starting in 1919, November 11 was observed as Armistice Day to commemorate the end of the war. In 1954, veteran service organizations (VSOs) successfully lobbied Congress to rename Armistice Day to Veterans Day to honor all military veterans.

On Veterans Day, we honor all those who have served in the military, both in peace time and times of war. It’s an opportunity to show gratitude to the brave men and women who have made sacrifices to protect our freedoms.

Memorial Day vs. Veterans Day

Both Memorial Day and Veterans Day recognize the service and sacrifice of our nation’s heroes, but the meaning behind each is different. Memorial Day is observed each year on the fourth Monday in May, and Veterans Day is recognized annually on November 11. While Memorial Day honors service members who died while serving in the military, Veterans Day celebrates living veterans. On Memorial Day, many people choose to honor the fallen by visiting their resting places or learning their stories.

Both living veterans and fallen heroes are an important part of Travis Manion Foundation’s mission to empower veterans and families of fallen heroes to develop character in future generations.

Thank a Veteran

Many of our nation’s veterans continue to embrace the “If Not Me, Then Who…” ethos by serving their communities after their military service has ended. One of the best ways you can thank a veteran this Veterans Day is by serving alongside them in your community. 

Here are some other ways to express your gratitude on Veterans Day:

• Connect with a local veterans home in your community. Offer your time to meet with veterans, participate in activities or get to know more about them. Share your gratitude with a veteran by writing them a letter or drawing them a picture. You can hand deliver or mail your letter to a veterans home.

• Organize a collection drive for wish list items at a local veterans home. Check with the veterans home before collecting items to see what they need most and if there are items they cannot accept.

This Veterans Day, embrace the “If Not Me, Then Who…” ethos by finding a way to honor veterans through service to your community. To learn more about Travis Manion Foundation (TMF) and explore more ways to get involved in your community, join the mission.