Veterans Day originated as "Armistice Day" on November 11, 1919, the first anniversary of the end of World War I. Congress passed a resolution in 1926 for an annual observance, and November 11 became a national holiday beginning in 1938. President Dwight D. Eisenhower signed legislation in 1954 to change the name to Veterans Day as a way to honor those who served in all American wars. The day has evolved into also honoring living military veterans with parades and speeches across the nation.

According to the US Census, there are 27.3 million veterans in the United States (2006). More than nine million were 65 and older; almost two million were younger than 35. Those living today served in peace time (6.1 million) and in war:  Gulf Wars, 4.6 million; Vietnam, 8 million; Korea, 3.1 million; World War II, 3.2 million; World War I, 3 (the last World War I veteran who was receiving benefits from the Dept. of Veterans Affairs died in January 2007).

Veterans are encouraged to wear their medals and commendations on their civilian clothes.

The National Archives has a great site for helping you find information about the veterans in your family. 

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