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 very much for your services! I hope you have a Wonderful Day! God Bless You.

Pina S.

Santa Cruz, CA

Thank you for your service and dedication to our country. The sacrifices you and your families have made are very admirable and I am proud to serve those who have served here at the VA hospital.

Sarah F.

Carrollton, VA

Thank you for your service!

Garrett E.

Stillwater, OK

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 so much for giving up many important times in your life to serve your country. I do appreciate that things have not been easy and that you’ve had to spend less time with your family. I just wanted to tell you thank you. God bless you and your family.

Lynne E.

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

I would like to say Thank you for your service, without our veterans to keep us safe, we would not be a free country.

Regina D.

Thanks for your service and sacrifice. Prayers for you, your families and all those that serve our country. You are so appreciated.

Irena J.

Baltimore, MD

A heartfelt thank you for your service. Your commitment and dedication is noticed, is appreciated. As an Army mom with a young soldier currently deployed i'm beginning to understand the sacrifices you made to serve this great nation. Thank you, Thank you!

Camille M.

Thank you to all of my fellow men and women in arms. Thank you for your service, sacrifice and dedication to the causes we serve. May God cover and keep you and your loved ones is my prayer.

Tonya S.

Dunkirk, MD

Thank you for all you did for this country to ensure that my children and I are able to live our daily lives with security and freedom.

Nicci W.

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

Kira F.

Fort Campbell, KY

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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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Send a Message of 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 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.