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

Dear Veteran I appreciate all that you have done. Thank you. You are so brave and courageous. My hope for you is to learn a skill that can help you in life. May you be happy and healthy.

Trish F.

Santa Cruz, CA

As a Marine Corps Vet, I wanted to take a moment to thank you for your service and dedication to serving and standing between us and the evil in the world today. Your sacrifice does not go unnoticed even in today's toxic political environment. Thank you again for your service and may God Bless you until you return home to your family and friends, SemperFi

Derrick R.

Bronx, NY

Thank you for your service and sacrifice. You are truly appreciated. Prayers for you, your unit and your family.

Tonya W.

Jefferson City, TN

Thank you so much for your service and dedication to our country and our freedom.

Jessica S.

Millcreek, UT

Thank you so much for your service! You are appreciated very much!

Debra G.

Thank You for your service. God Bless

Kathleen G.

Middletown, DE

Thank you for all you do for our country!

Teresa R.

Thank you for your service. Your sacrifices are appreciated. I am sorry Trump said you were less than appreciated. I will support any legislation that helps our hero’s.

Robert M.

Thank you so much for your sacrifice and service that you are providing to help keep the free world free from foreign and domestic enemies. My family is forever grateful!

Tim B.

Erlanger, KY

I am the son of WW2 survivors. If not for our brave service members, my parents may have perished in the Italy during the war. And if the war had ended differently they definitely would not have immigrated to the US where they met and began a 62 year love story. So I thank all veterans, retired and active duty, past and present, who represent...

Gino S.

Lakewood, NJ

Thank you and God bless.

Ron L.

My grandfather served in the Army in WWII and I was fortunate enough to get to meet some of the people he helped during his service overseas. Thank you for everything you do. With love and gratitude, Erica

Erica L.

Pittsburgh, PA

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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.