Every year, in the United States, Veterans Day is commemorated, a special day dedicated to recognizing the work of those who made up the country’s Armed Forces, particularly those who left everything to fight in the war.
Generally, on Veterans Day, parades are organized in practically all the states of the American Union, where the population thanks former military personnel for the service they at some point provided in favor of them and the country.
But the most important event of what is also called Veteran’s Day is a ceremony that takes place at the so-called Tomb of the Unknown Soldier, which is located in Arlington National Cemetery, in Virginia, headed by the current president, in this case Joe Biden.
Based on data from the Census Bureau, it is estimated that around 6.2% of the US population over 18 years of age belongs to the veteran community, which totals more than 16.2 million . Of these, 26.3% served in World War II, 24.4% in World War I and 33.6% in Vietnam.
Veterans Day, in the US, is celebrated every year on November 11; However, since in 2023 it will fall on a Saturday, it will officially move to Friday the 10th.
Although it is an official holiday recognized at the federal level, only federal workers must rest that day and if they must work, it is their right to receive a salary of double their normal salary, only for that day. For the rest of the employees it is not mandatory and they depend on the decision of the company for which they work.
Origin of Veterans Day
The first celebration of this type was held in 1919, just to commemorate the first anniversary of the end of World War I. It was called Armistice Day, since it was the pause in the attacks that Germany and the allied nations had agreed upon, starting at the eleventh hour, of the eleventh day, of the eleventh month.
This celebration was proclaimed by President Wilson, with meetings and parades, as well as the suspension of activities at noon.
But it was in 1938 when this day became an official holiday, which remained until 1954, when Congress included in the commemoration soldiers who served in World War II and other battles in the country, so the name was changed to Veterans Day.
Almost 30 years later the date was moved so that the population could enjoy a long weekend. However, in 1975 the date was returned to November 11.
The tradition of going to the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier arose in 1921, when during Armistice Day a soldier who fought in World War II, and whose identity was unknown, was buried.
Keep reading:
* Veterans Day: Where to get free food and other promotions
* Veterans Day 2023: these are the discounts in restaurants and stores
* What is the difference between Memorial Day and Veterans Day and why are they commemorated on different days?