On November 11, 1919, President Woodrow Wilson observed the first "Armistice Day' one year after the close of the first World War.
The soldiers of the European Allies had fought from more than four years to preserve freedom. While the United States didn't join into World War 1 until April of 1917, many Americans, young and old alike actually volunteered to support European troops long before the U.S. formally committed troops to the war. During the early years of the War, Wilson had spoken against U.S. involvement, preferring an 'isolationist' view of the United States in world politics. But he eventually changed his mind and asked Congress to first delare war on Germany, and then on Austria and Hungary a few months later in 1917.
But Veterans day, first known as Armistice Day, isn't about war, it is about peace. It is also about honoring those who 'served', and since being first observed in 1919, then resolved by Congress in 1926, and then declared as a legal holiday in 1938, it has been dedicated to the cause of world peace and those who serve the U.S. military. In 1954, Congress amended the holiday declaration to replace the name 'Armistice' with 'Veterans' and it has been known as Veterans Day ever since.
For seven short years, from 1971 through 1977, the holiday was shifted from being observed every November 11th (regardless of day of the week) to the fourth Monday of October; however it was moved back to November 11 in time for the 1978 observance.
This is a time to honor and thank ALL who have served in the United States Armed Forces, both living and deceased, for their service. This contrasts from Memorial Day intended to honor those who have died in service to the U.S. Military.
We here at Insightful Accountant to take this opportunity to say that "it is our honor to say 'Thank You' to every Veteran who has served in our military, 'Bless Each and Every One of You."
Headline graphic adapted from Veterans Care Coordination, "What Does Veterans Day Mean to a Veteran?", supporting Care for Aging Veterans; 300 Parkway Industrial Drive, Lake Saint Louis, Missouri. You can reach out to support their mission at this website.