Veterans Day was originally established as a holiday to honor and memorialize those men who fought in World War I. World War I officially ended on June 28, 1919 when the Treaty of Versailles was signed. However fighting ceased more than seven months earlier with an armistice that went into effect at 1100 on November 11, 1918. Originally, the day was known as Armistice Day because World War I was to be the war to end all wars. Following World War II, which required the greatest mobilization of all branches of the military in the nation’s history, and after the Korean War, the word “Veterans” took the place of “Armistice.” On June 1, 1954, November 11 became a day to honor American veterans of all wars. For a brief time, Veterans Day was to serve as one of four national holidays that would be on a Monday to ensure a three-day weekend for the people, but because of the historical significance of November 11 it was returned to that date. Today we honor veterans from all wars, both past and present, for their service, honor, and courage.
Come out to the Memorial Courtyard at the National Museum of the Pacific War at 11:00 am on Thursday for a commemoration program. Senator John Cornyn will be presenting the Keynote Address. It is a free program and all are welcome!
To all of those who have served, thank you!
