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
A Message from Our CEO
As the nation’s largest military and Veteran family support organization, Blue Star Families has proudly supported Veterans, service members, and their families for 15 years. We’re excited about the journey ahead, and as we look to the next 15 years, we invite you to Do Your Part in supporting the mission.
Veterans Day is an opportunity for all of us to honor and show our deepest appreciation for the Veterans and military families who serve and protect our nation’s freedom. We’re grateful for the Veterans and their families who join us in our community, and we thank the supporters who join us in our collective thanks.
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 All-Volunteer Force, and we owe each and every one of our Veterans our gratitude today and all year long. Each one of us can do our part to support these heroes.
Ways You Can Join Us This Veterans Day:
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Sign the Thank You Card and Visit Our Virtual Veterans Day Wall: Share messages of appreciation or browse the heartfelt messages from others honoring Veterans. .
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Volunteer or Attend an Event: Join us on the ground as a volunteer or come to one of our Blue Star Families Chapter events.
Share Resources to Support Veterans and Military Families
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Promote Peer-to-Peer Support Networks: Share our resources with your community to support Veterans and their families directly, including Blue Star Support Circles.
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Highlight Veterans Day Offers from Our Brand Partners: Help Veterans and their families access special Veterans Day deals through our trusted partners.
Thank you for being a part of this mission with us.
Warm regards,
Kathy Roth-Douquet
CEO & Co-Founder, Blue Star Families
Exclusive Deals for Veterans
Your service enables us to remain free. As a token of our gratitude, explore our exclusive deals list, featuring fantastic offers just for you.
Watch A Mother's Grief
Our Support Circles provide a welcoming space for sharing and healing. Connect with those who understand your experiences, support each other, and find hope together.
Check out our newest PSA and join us.
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.
Join the nation's largest digital community solely focused on supporting military-connected families.
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:
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.
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.
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 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.