How Veterans Day Started — A Tribute to Those Who Served

​Ever wondered how Veterans Day began?

Learn the history behind this national holiday, from its origins as Armistice Day in 1918 to the modern tribute honoring all U.S. veterans.

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A Day of Honor and Reflection
Each year on November 11th, the nation pauses to honor those who served in the U.S. Armed Forces. While parades, ceremonies, and moments of silence are now familiar traditions, the story of how Veterans Day began is one deeply rooted in peace, gratitude, and remembrance.
(Sources: U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs, Library of Congress, National Archives)

🌍 The Origin — Armistice Day (1918)
The holiday traces its beginnings to the end of World War I, known at the time as “the war to end all wars.”

• On November 11, 1918, at 11 a.m., the Allied powers and Germany signed an armistice agreement, officially ending major hostilities on the Western Front.
• The date — the 11th hour of the 11th day of the 11th month — became symbolic of peace and hope.

In 1919, President Woodrow Wilson proclaimed the first Armistice Day, marking November 11 as a day of remembrance for those who fought in World War I.

🇺🇸 From Armistice to Veterans Day
After World War II and the Korean War, Americans wanted to honor all who had served, not just those from the First World War.

• In 1954, Congress passed a bill officially changing “Armistice Day” to Veterans Day.
• President Dwight D. Eisenhower signed the legislation, calling on citizens to recognize November 11 as a day to honor all veterans — living and deceased — who served in any branch of the U.S. military.

This marked the beginning of Veterans Day as we know it today — a national holiday of appreciation rather than mourning.

🕊️ A Brief Pause and Return
For a short time in the 1970s, Veterans Day was observed on the fourth Monday of October due to the Uniform Monday Holiday Act, which aimed to give federal workers consistent long weekends.
However, the change was met with widespread public opposition. Many believed that November 11 held historic importance and should remain the day of observance.

Congress agreed, and in 1978, Veterans Day was officially restored to November 11, where it remains.

❤️ Honoring Veterans Today
Modern Veterans Day is a celebration of service, sacrifice, and unity. Across Texas and the nation, communities come together with:

• Parades and wreath-laying ceremonies
• Moments of silence at 11 a.m.
• School and civic programs recognizing local veterans

It’s also a reminder to reflect on the freedoms we enjoy thanks to the dedication of those who served — whether during wartime or peace.

🇺🇸 A Note of Gratitude
At Corin Insurance Group, we proudly recognize the courage and service of our nation’s veterans. Many of our clients, neighbors, and family members have served — and we’re grateful for their commitment to protecting others, both at home and abroad.
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This Veterans Day, we honor every person who wore the uniform and stood ready to serve.

Disclaimer: This article is for educational and informational purposes only. Historical details are sourced from the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs, Library of Congress, and National Archives.