The importance of Veterans Day

Veterans Day, recognized on November 11, represents a time for Americans to come together to celebrate and commemorate the bravery and sacrifice of everyone who has served. The holiday began in 1919 when President Woodrow Wilson proclaimed November 11 as Armistice Day to memorialize the end of WWI and to reflect upon the heroism of those who died in our country’s service.

While most people recognize veterans on this day once per year, it is important to not overlook the role that veterans play each day in America. Veterans service organizations, such as the Veterans of Foreign Wars, strive to highlight the importance of veterans all year long.

This Veterans Day, we encourage you to reflect on the important contributions that veterans make both in our nation and in our individual communities. Take a moment to thank a veteran for their service or contact your local VFW Post to see how you can make a positive difference in the lives of veterans and their families.

Lastly, it is important to remember that veterans should be recognized not only on this special day but every day.

— Martin Yingling, State Commander, Veterans of Foreign Wars Department of California