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Veteran’s Day http:// www.history.com/topics/holidays/history-of-veterans-day. Honoring Our Veterans. “We often take for granted the very things that deserve our gratitude” -Cynthia Ozick. World War I (1914-1918). World War I (1914-1918).
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Veteran’s Dayhttp://www.history.com/topics/holidays/history-of-veterans-day
Honoring Our Veterans • “We often take for granted the very things that deserve our gratitude” -Cynthia Ozick
World War I (1914-1918) • From 1914 to 1918, the nations of Europe pounded each other into near annihilation in the “War to End All Wars” • An estimated 40 million people (20 million civilians) died in this war.
“The Great War” Ends World War I came to an end officially on June 28, 1919 with the signing of the “Treaty of Versailles” A cease fire, however, had actually begun on November 11, 1918
November 11, 1918 • The “Great War” had actually ended on “the eleventh hour, of the eleventh day, of the eleventh month…” ( this is when we celebrate Veterans’ Day now) • This date, regardless of the signing of the treaty, is often considered the end of the war.
President Woodrow Wilson • “To us in America, the reflections of Armistice Day will be filled with solemn pride in the heroism of those who died in the country’s service and with gratitude for the victory, both because of the thing from which it has freed us and because of the opportunity it has given America to show her sympathy with peace and justice in the councils of the nations…” • President Wilson first made this a national holiday!
“Armistice Day” (Nov. 11) • “Armistice Day” was the name of our first holiday to recognize Veterans!!! originally called for parades and public meetings on this day, with businesses closing at briefly at 11 a.m. to join in the celebrations.
June 4, 1926 • On this date, the U.S. Congress passed a resolution requesting November 11 be recognized by the President as a day of remembrance and celebration in the United States:
May 13, 1938 • On this date, the U.S. Congress declared “Armistice Day” a legal holiday. • Though originally to honor World War I veterans, it will again go through another change. • What would make us make a change????
June 1, 1954 • On this date, the U.S. Congress amended the 1938 law to include ALL veterans of war. Why??? • World War II, the largest war fought by the United States, had ended 9 years earlier.
October 8, 1954 • On this date, President Dwight D. Eisenhower created the “Veteran’s Day National Committee” to help unite civic and governmental agencies in celebrating this holiday.
October 8, 1954 • From this date on, “Armistice Day” would be known as “Veteran’s Day” and would forever include ALL veterans of ALL U.S. wars.
June 28, 1968 • On this date, the U.S. Congress passed the “Uniform Holiday Bill”. • It’s purpose was to create 4 national holidays on Mondays to give Federal employees long weekends.
October 25, 1971 • On this date, the new day for “Veteran’s Day” was observed with much confusion. • Throughout the nation, it was an overwhelming failure as most wanted it returned to it’s original date.
September 20, 1975 • On this date, President Gerald Ford signed a bill returning “Veteran’s Day” to November 11. • This officially began on November 11, 1978.
Korean War (actually a conflict)(5.7 Million Served from 1950 to 1953)
Vietnam War (actually a Conflict)(8.7 Million Served from 1965 to 1975)
Our Veterans • Over 43 million Americans have served this country since it’s birth. • Currently, there are 24 million veterans living in the United States (over 18 million combat veterans).
Our Veterans There is a national Military Cemetery where Veterans’ can be buried – it is called Arlington National Cemetery.
Our Veterans The final resting place for unidentified military personnel is called “The Tomb of the Unknown Soldier” and there are currently 3 “unknown soldiers resting there.
Our Veterans The highest salute you can receive in the military is the 21 Gun Salute
Our Veterans • “This nation will remain the land of the free only so long as it is the home of the brave.” -Elmer Davis