Veterans Day originated in World War I after the Allied forces and Germany signed an armistice agreement on the 11th hour of the 11th day of the 11th month in 1918, ending what was known "Great War." World leaders also dubbed World War 1 “The War to End All Wars,” a hope for peace that continues to be remembered throughout generations.
In honor of the historic event’s first anniversary, President Woodrow Wilson proclaimed November 11 as Armistice Day in 1919 to recognize those who had served in World War I. Other countries, including the UK, Canada, and Australia celebrate Remembrance Day to honor their veterans on the same day. Over the next few decades, the day remained focused primarily on veterans of World War I.
Unfortunately, World War 1 didn’t end all wars. After World War II and the Korean War, the United States expanded the holiday to honor all veterans, not just those who fought in World War I. In 1954, following lobbying from veteran organizations such as the American Legion, Congress passed legislation to change the name of the holiday from Armistice Day to Veterans Day. President Dwight D. Eisenhower signed the bill into law.
Some holidays like Presidents’ Day fall on a different day each year. Veterans Day briefly followed the same pattern when the U.S. government moved to the fourth Monday of October in 1968, a change that was first implemented in 1971. Veterans’ groups criticized this change, however, as they felt that the change disregarded the holiday’s historical significance. As a result, President Gerald Ford signed a bill in 1975 restoring Veterans Day to its original date—that change took effect in 1978.
Alabama has special connections to Veterans Day. Birmingham has the oldest Veterans Day parade in the nation, a tradition that started in 1947. Featuring local horses, color guards, and bands as well as veterans, the Birmingham Parade is among the largest in the nation even today.
Today, as wars rage overseas and pessimistic footage floods the news, Veterans Day serves as a weighty reminder of the sacrifices Americans have made and continue to make for freedom.
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