Armistice Day

Armistice Day is a holiday now known as Veterans Day. This holiday honored those who had fought in World War I. Its name originated from the armistice between Germany and other allied countries which marked the end of the war. The armistice was signed on the eleventh hour, of the eleventh day, of the eleventh month in 1918. President Woodrow Wilson declared it a holiday, and the first observance was on November 11, 1919. In 1938, Armistice Day was declared a federal holiday. After World War II and the Korean War, many military supporters urged Congress to change the holiday to include all veterans. It was then that the name was officially changed to Veterans Day. http://www.history.com/topics/history-of-veterans-day

Other countries have similar holidays to mark the historical event. Remembrance Day is observed in Canada, while the second Sunday in November is known by the British as Remembrance Sunday. Other European countries may also observe moments of silence on November 11th.http://www.history.com/topics/history-of-veterans-day

In observance of the holiday, celebrations, memorials or other tributes may be held. The National Wreath Ceremony is held at the Tomb of the Unknowns in Arlington National Cemetery. For this event, a wreath is placed at the tomb by the president or his designated official. http://www.arlingtoncemetery.mil/ceremonies/wreath_layings.html

Another holiday tradition is the New York City Veterans Day parade. Since 1919, the city has hosted a parade event. Organizations from across the country participate, including marching bands, military divisions, veterans organizations or ROTC (Reserve Officer Training Corps) units. They march through the city as onlookers stand in support and watch. http://www.nycveteransdayparade.com/veterans_day.html

A common misconception regarding Memorial Day and Veterans Day may be that these two holidays are similar. While they both honor military service, Memorial Day is celebrated to honor the men and women who have fought and died during service. Veterans Day, formally honors all veterans whether they be active, retired or have perished.http://www.history.com/topics/history-of-veterans-day