What is Veterans Day and why is it important?

Veterans Day - November 11

Veterans Day is a day set aside, a Federal Holiday, to commemorate the loss and sacrifice of all Americans who have served in the US Military : those who have died fighting for our freedom, those who are now fighting, and those who will continue to fight in the future.

History

U.S. holiday celebrated on November 11, honouring veterans of the U.S. armed forces and those killed in battle. Originally called Armistice Day, it began as a commemoration of the ending of World War I on Nov. 11, 1918. After World War II it was recognized as a day to pay tribute to all service members, and in 1954 it was designated as Veterans Day. It is usually observed with parades, speeches, and flowers placed on military graves and memorials. The holiday is called Remembrance Day in Canada and Remembrance Sunday (on the Sunday nearest to November 11) in Britain.

Federal Holiday

As a federal holiday, Veterans Day is always celebrated on November 11. If that date falls on a Sunday, the following Monday becomes a federal holiday, and the various celebrations will be divided between the two days. If the date falls on a Saturday, the preceding Friday may be designated as the leave day for federal government employees.