How Much Do You Know About Veterans Day?
Veterans Day is a federal holiday commemorated each year on the same date – November 11, which in 2022, happens to be today. The reason behind the date is that in 1918, during World War I, on the 11th hour of the 11th day of the 11th month, an armistice, was declared between the Allied nations and Germany. This temporary cessation of hostilities led to the end of the Great War.
It’s known as Armistice Day or Remembrance Day in countries around the world and was first commemorated in 1919. It was originally Armistice Day in the U.S. as well, until after World War II and the Korean War when it became Veterans Day. The idea was to honor veterans of all wars and not just World War I. You can learn more about the history of this day from the History Channel.
Veterans Day and Memorial Day Commemorate Two Different Things
Some people get confused about the difference between Memorial Day and Veterans Day. Memorial Day honors those military members who died while in service to our country. Veterans Day honors all military veterans, including active-duty service men and women.
A Word About the Spelling
It’s also important to note that there is no apostrophe in Veterans Day. It’s not Veteran’s Day or Veterans’ Day. That’s because the day does not belong to veterans. An apostrophe denotes possession. Instead, it is about veterans, as a group.
Thank You for Your Service
Did you know that a recent poll shows 49% of veterans don’t like to be thanked for their service? According to a Cohen Veterans Network poll, 91% of civilians have thanked a veteran for their service, but nearly half of the veterans and active-duty service members who participated in the poll feel uncomfortable being thanked. Most said it’s because they don’t know how to respond.
The poll also shows that 58% of veterans and active-duty members surveyed said the best way to honor veterans and their service is to donate to or volunteer with a veteran-related organization.
Get Outside on Veterans Day
Whether you attend a local parade, remembrance ceremony, or participate in placing flowers on the graves of departed veterans, make a point to get outside today and enjoy your freedom. And instead of saying “thank you for your service,” consider donating to or volunteering with a veteran-related organization to show your appreciation for our military.
Dream It. Build It. Live It.
If you’re thinking about improving your outdoor living spaces, we can help. We are now setting design consultation appointments for 2023. Check out our Portfolio for examples of our work, and to gain inspiration.
We work with homeowners throughout the Capital Region, including Northern Virginia, Maryland, and Washington D.C.
