Do Your Part: Veterans Day - Blue Star Families

This Veterans Day ...

As the nation’s largest nonprofit organization supporting military and Veteran families, we understand that it will take all of us, doing our part, to make a difference. Blue Star Families appreciates your commitment to our nation. #DoYourPart

Veterans Day Message from Our CEO

Ways to 'Do Your Part' this Veterans Day

Blue Star Families empowers communities to support military and Veteran families year-round through initiatives focused on connection and community, job and economic security, and military youth well-being. Our goal is to ensure that every military and Veteran family feels at home, no matter where in the world their duties take them.

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Veterans Day Honor Wall

There is no better time than Veterans Day to recognize that our freedom isn't guaranteed. It's protected by the men and women in our Armed Services and we owe each and every one of them our gratitude. Please sign this virtual card to thank a Veteran for their service this Veterans Day!

Sign the Virtual Card

Thank you all for your service. Each and every veteran has contributed to keeping our country safe while uplifting our values across the globe for those in need. it is an honor to be able to send a thanks to those who are willing to sacrifice for the greater good, something a lot of people are too selfish to do. i thank you for choosing...

Amiya B.

Stillwater, OK

Thank you for fighting for our country so my generations and the generations to come can enjoy the freedom you have helped provide us with. My father and brother were in the military, so truly, thank you for everything you have ever done and sacrificed for this country. We all appreciate it more than you'll ever know.

Amber-Sky A.

perry, OK

Thank you for your service You are forever in our thoughts and prayers

April D.

mineola, TX

Thank you so much for keeping us safe always and for putting your life on the line for me and others!!! There is no other gift more giving than what you are doing!! May God Bless You Always and His Love pour down on you!!

Diana I.

Thank you for your service.

Matthew H.

Thank You For YOUR Service!

Chelsea H.

Perry, OK

To all the brave men and women who have served our country, we express our deepest gratitude on this Veterans Day. Your courage, sacrifice, and dedication have shaped our nation, and we are profoundly thankful for your service. Today, we honor you—our true heroes. Happy Veterans Day! #VeteransDay #HonoringHeroes #ThankYouVeterans

Caren N.

new york, NY

Thank you for choosing to serve our country.

Barbara S.

I just want to say thank you to all who have served and who are still serving. The world would not be the same without those who bravely decided to serve in order to protect. Thanking each and everyone of you today and everyday.

Kay S.

Jacksonville, FL

Thank you, for your service. God bless you!

Yadira R.

Guthrie, OK

thank you so much for protecting our country, i know it's not a safe job and it takes a brave person to do this job.

Haydon S.

perkins, OK

Thank you for your sacrifices to protect our freedom.

Rosie B.

Parrish, FL

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There is no better time than Veterans Day to recognize that our freedom isn't guaranteed. It's protected by the men and women in our Armed Services and we owe each and every one of them our gratitude. Please sign this virtual card to thank a Veteran for their service this Veterans Day!

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What is the significance of Veterans Day?

Veterans Day, observed on November 11, is a U.S. holiday honoring all who served in the Armed Forces. Originally called Armistice Day, it marked the end of World War I in 1918 and was renamed in 1954 to recognize veterans from all wars. Unlike Memorial Day, which honors fallen soldiers, Veterans Day celebrates all veterans with parades, ceremonies, and expressions of gratitude nationwide.

Learn More About Veterans Day:

Origins and History

Veterans Day originated as Armistice Day on November 11, 1919, marking the first anniversary of the armistice that ended World War I. The holiday honored those who served in "the war to end all wars." In 1954, after World War II and the Korean War, the U.S. Congress amended the holiday to honor all American veterans, renaming it Veterans Day to celebrate the service of veterans from all wars.

Modern Observance

Today, Veterans Day is observed as a federal holiday on November 11, regardless of the day of the week. This allows Americans nationwide to remember and thank veterans for their service. The observance includes ceremonies at military cemeteries and war memorials, notably at Arlington National Cemetery, where a wreath is laid at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier. Many government offices and schools close, though some businesses remain open and may offer discounts to veterans.

Significance

Veterans Day holds deep significance as a day of national gratitude and recognition for the sacrifices made by veterans in defense of American values. It serves as a reminder of the personal and collective impact of military service, honoring the courage and commitment of all veterans, both in times of conflict and peace. Unlike Memorial Day, which specifically remembers fallen service members, Veterans Day celebrates the contributions of all veterans.

Traditions and Cultural Impact

Traditions on Veterans Day include parades, patriotic events, and observances of silence at the 11th hour of the 11th day of the 11th month, symbolizing the end of World War I hostilities. Many communities organize events where veterans share their experiences, and schools often educate students on military history and the meaning of service. In popular culture, Veterans Day reinforces the role of the armed forces in shaping American identity, emphasizing values of service, duty, and national pride.