Honoring Our Brave Veterans and Strong Military

Veterans Day, since November 11th, 1919, has been celebrated annually in the United States as a way to show gratitude to those who have selflessly served in one of the branches of the United States military.

The holiday grew out of the commemoration of Armistice Day, the Department of Veterans Affairs says, when fighting between the Allied countries and Germany ended on the 11th hour of the 11th day of the 11th month. It was to have been the end of "the war to end all wars," and is observed annually on Nov. 11, no matter what day of the week that date falls.

President Woodrow Wilson inaugurated the first celebration in 1919, with parades and a brief break in business starting at 11 a.m.

Veterans Day continues to be boldly celebrated through parades, commemorative events, and more to proudly show our support and thanks to those who bravely stepped up and wore the uniform to defend our freedoms.

This Veterans Day, take the time to attend a community event or parade and thank a veteran for their service to our nation.

Ways you can honor a veteran:

• Share a Veteran's story in the Illinois Veterans History Project by completing the Illinois Patriot Information Form and submitting it to the Illinois Secretary of State' office.
• On December 14, participate in a wreath-laying ceremony on National Wreaths Across America Day to honor Veterans.
• Connect a Veteran who may need a little support with a volunteer from Illinois Joining Forces through Operation Connect-a-Vet.
• Find out how you can volunteer for Honor Flight or Operation HerStory.