Veterans Day is November 11, and to many of us is known as a day off of work or to have a BBQ with family and friends. But do you know the actual meaning or why it’s important? Read on below; we’ve got you covered.
Armistice Day: Why Veterans Day is Nov. 11
Veterans Day dates back to 1919. Originally known as Armistice Day, this holiday was created by Congress to celebrate the one-year anniversary of the end of World War I.
“At the 11th hour on the 11th day of the 11th month of 1918, the Great War ends,” as History.com said. Out of manpower, supplies and facing invasion, Germany agreed to sign and “Armistice Agreement,” which signified the end of World War I.
The plan was to celebrate and remember the end of the “war to end all wars,” because of its mass destruction and death. As we know, conflicts only continued, and World War II erupted.
In 1954, President Eisenhower signed a bill to change the holiday to Veterans Day, so as to remember all who served our country.
How You Can Help Arizona’s Veterans
At Valor, we believe it imperative to help out our veterans who have worked so hard to protect us. This November 11, look out for an event near you and see how you can volunteer. Here are a few ways to get you started:
- Volunteer for the Phoenix VA Healthcare System
- Help host a BBQ through U.S. Vets
- Donate a Christmas gift to United for Change
- Visit a Veterans Cemetery near you
You may not have money or much time to donate, and that’s OK! We can bet you probably know someone who served our country, whether it be a family member, a neighbor or a friend. Today is a great day to remember them and do something kind! Maybe you know a veteran, or maybe you know a family of a veteran. Write them a note! Bake something delicious and send it their way. A small act of appreciation can go a long way.
