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

To 1SG Angel Franco Mendez, USA Retired. Your sacrifice and dedication as a military member over the years are greatly appreciated. You have endured long days without getting a full night's sleep or a bed to rest your tired body. You have spent many sleepless nights anticipating the enemy's intent, braving cold days because the military clothing you wore was not enough to keep your...

Maria F.

Walters, OK

Thank you to each and every veteran - wherever you are and however you served our great country. You and your families deserve our nation's enduring gratitude.

Ed F.

Arlington, VA

Dear Veteran of the United States Military, and your family members, THANK YOU for your service to America, for your part in keeping us all safe, and for sending our enemies and adversaries the message that we have patriots like YOU standing ready to face and defeat any challenge. God bless you and your loved ones for the many sacrifices you make, so that every...

LeRoy F.

Regardless of when we served, or what we did when we were in uniform, we are all Veterans and are due the utmost thanks. Happy Veterans Day, Larry Nazimek

Larry N.

Chicago, IL

Thank you for serving our country!!

Ingrid N.

WBL, MN

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

Jessica S.

Millcreek, UT

Thank you so much for served the country, and for all you been continue serving. We are so proud of you

Daruis L.

Herndon, VA

Thank you so much for all you do! I know we are strangers to each other, but I am so extremely appreciative of all who fought and still fight for our country. Have a wonderful day 🙂

Ashlynn O.

Dorr, MI

Thank you for your sacrifice and service.

Kari L.

Apple Valley, MN

Thank you for being for to help in when needed. My family grateful for keeping us safe . Veterans are part of our family. The men in our family, included A grand father my husband which went to Korea, my older son went to Gulf And uncle which went to world WAR II. That uncle died and buried in Belgium.9

Lupe Cordero C.

Aptos, CA

Thank you for your service.

Sarah R.

PLYMOUTH, MN

Thank you for all the sacrifices you made while serving our country, and all the days ever since. I realize even when you're done serving, the sacrifices never end. From an extremely grateful army wife. God bless you and God bless the United States of America!

Noel C.

Elkton, MD

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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.