At the Palace of Versailles in France, the Treaty of Versailles was signed to officially end World War I on June 28, 1919. Seven months prior to the signing of the armistice, fighting ceased between the Allied nations and Germany. The temporary cessation went into effect on the eleventh hour of the eleventh day of the eleventh month. For that reason, November 11, 1918 was generally regarded as the end of “the war to end all wars.”
In November of the following year, President Wilson proclaimed November 11th as the first commemoration of Armistice Day – a celebration day to be observed with parades and public meetings and a brief suspension of business beginning at 11:00 a.m.
An Act approved by Congress on May 13, 1938, made November 11th in each year a legal holiday and to be known as Armistice Day. In 1954, after World War II had required the greatest mobilization of soldiers in the nation’s history, Congress was urged by veteran service organizations to amend the Act of 1938 by striking out the word “Armistice” and replacing it with the word “Veterans.” On June 1, 1954, President Dwight D. Eisenhower officially changed November 11th to Veterans Day to honor United States veterans of all wars.
Today, our nation celebrates Veterans Day in many ways. Each year on November 11th at 11:00 a.m., a combined color guard representing all military services executes a “Present Arms” tribute at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier. Located in Arlington National Cemetery, the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier holds the remains of an unidentified American soldier from World War I and stands as a monument dedicated to all deceased United States servicemembers whose remains have not been identified. A presidential wreath is laid upon the tomb as symbol of commemoration, honor, and appreciation for all who have served in the United States Armed Services.
To all veterans, we thank you.
Written by: Gabriela B. Murillo
Edited by: Theresa E. Viera
