World

US Set to Celebrate Veterans Day

by Jon Azpiri | November 10, 2008 at 02:00 pm

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While much of the world will be celebrating Remembrance Day this Tuesday, November 11, the US will observe Veterans Day.

Just what is Veterans Day? Originally a day to celebrate World War I veterans, it is now a time to honor those who have served their country. The purpose of Veterans Day is slightly different than that of Memorial Day, which honors US soldiers who have died serving their country.

Like Remembrance Day, Veterans Day takes place on November 11, the anniversary of the end of World War I. In 1918, an armistice was signed on the 11th hour of the 11th day of the 11th month that effectively marked the end of what was then known as the Great War. This year marks the 90th anniversary of the end of the Great War.

Veterans Day started in 1936 when US Congress passed a bill declaring Nov. 11 a federal holiday. At first, the holiday was known as Armistice Day and was meant to honor First World War veterans. Over time, the holiday was renamed Veterans Day and focused on honoring all those who have served in the US military, in both times of war and peace.

Federal employees are given day off on November 11 and many federal facilities, such as the post office, will be closed. Many public schools will be closed, but not all. To find out more about school closings, contact your local school district. Most retail stores will remain open on Veterans Day.