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!

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thank you very much for giving your life to this horrible war. you were a wonderful friend. I feel that you are in a much better place now w God.

nancy a.

santa cruz, CA

Thank you for what you have done to serve our country! Though I do not know you personally, you have a special place in my heart. I will always be thankful.

Sarah B.

Lone Rock, WI

Thank you so much for your service and sacrifices. Your dedication to serving your country means more to me than I can express. Thank you from the bottom of my heart.

Tracy Z.

Hope all finds you well.Thank you so much for your Service 🇺🇲 So Many are Thankful & sending thoughts of peace, health & wellbeing. Prayers & God Bless you. Semper Fi ❤️🙏🇺🇲

Petra M.

Springfield, MA

Thank you for your service and for the service of your family members, who I know serve and sacrifice alongside you. You are all heroes.

Leslye A.

Thank you for your service.

Gavin B.

Thank you for the service and sacrifice you and your family have made for our country. We are a better and stronger nation because of you.

Edward F.

Arlington, VA

Thank you for your service to our country. Your bravery, sacrifice, and strength are so admirable. I'm too old to serve but I am in the US Coast Guard Auxiliary to give back as much as I can. I will always be indebted to you and your family for all that you have given to the country. Thank you very much for your time, bravery,...

Mick J.

Minneapolis, MN

As the widow of a World War II Veteran and sister of a deceased Vietnam Veteran, my family thanks each and every one of you for the proud military service you've given this great and beautiful country of ours to preserve its freedom as well as protecting the freedom of our allies around the world. We salute you on this Veterans Day 2022. Be assured...

Elaine H.

Bethesda, MD

This Veterans’ Day, I hope you have someone to hold you close and tell you thank you in person. If you don’t, know that the community sends our love, compassion, and gratitude to you, wherever you are.

Allison D.

I thank God for your commitment, your willingness and your desire to serve our country. We are better because of you. I come from a family of Military Veterans and now my oldest daughter, 23 years old is serving in the Navy, the first women to serve in our family. Again, thank you for all you've done. Well done servant, Well done!!!

Shaneen j.

Matteson, IL

Thank you so much for your service!

Marilyn H.

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AARP Home Modifications

We partnered with AARP to share essential resources on home modifications for Veterans that enhance safety, boost independence, and create a more enjoyable living space.

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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.

Ways to 'Do Your Part' this Veterans Day

Veterans Day Honor Wall

Exclusive Deals for Veterans

Watch A Mother's Grief

AARP Home Modifications

Send a Message of Thanks

What is the significance of Veterans Day?

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