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 for tireless service and commitment. As a fellow veteran, I sincerely appreciate all that you do.

Shima N.

Thank you to all the Veterans for your service! I'm a proud daughter of an army ranger and am so proud of the many brave and women that protect us every day. Thank you for our freedom! “This will remain the land of the free so long as it is the home of the brave.” — Elmer Davis

Alanis Q.

Dallas, TX

Thank you is never enough for all that our military do for our country . May you all aways come home too all of us.

Patricia L.

Ortonville, MI

My heartfelt Thanks to All our Veterans Present and gone now. Big Shoutout to my 2 Special Veterans, my Son’s, Marine Force Recon Sniper Staff Sergeant, David and Army Infantry Airborne, Sergeant, Timothy. My Heroes 🇺🇸🙏💙💙

Bonnie H.

Sagamore Hills, OH

Thank you so much for your service!

Heather K.

Golden Valley, MN, MN

Thank you for everything that you've done for this country

Kira F.

Fort Campbell, KY

Thank you for your service, and all you do keeping us safe. God bless you.

Dawn B.

Killeen, TX

Thank you!

Sleep Number P.

Porter Ranch, CA

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

To my daddy, MSgt Joscher and everyone is answered the call, still answers the service call, THANK YOU for all that you do and continue to do.

Tyler J.

Syracuse, UT

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 to my dad, both my grandpas and my many other descendants who served this country with honor. It is my joy and honor to serve Veterans every day at the VA. In particular, I have the unique opportunity to care for the invisible and ignored LGBTQ+ Veterans. I want them to know, I see you and you matter this Veterans Day!

Michelle W.

Salt Lake City, UT

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.

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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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