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 serving our country and protecting us. I know it is a sacrifice of time, energy, commitment and love. I was in the Army as a medic at the end of the Vietnam war--trained to go there but lucked out and it ended and was stationed in Germany. I sure matured fast in the Army at a mere 18 y.o! Anyway, you are...

Alfonso C.

Novato, CA

Thank you for your tireless service and dedication to our nation. I deeply admire your passion and sacrifice shown to your fellow neighbors. Please know your patriotism is deeply respected we are a grateful nation. Not many step up and volunteer for the role you have courageously placed yourself in, but all must be thankful that you and all your brothers and sisters have. Be...

Chris B.

Frederick, MD

To all veterans, global and domestic, thank you for your service and sacrifice you gave so that the rest of us can live in freedom. I forever appreciate you.

Brenda B.

Brooklyn, NY

Thank you so much for your service!

Laura M.

Parker, CO

Thank you for your service, and for everything after. My step-dad is a marine who was stationed in Iraq for 8 years. Everything you do is respected and you are important. Happy Veteran's day!

Lauren M.

Stillwater, OK

Thanks.

Karen T.

Silver Spring, MD

Because less than ONE PERCENT of our citizenry have served, YOU deserve each heartfelt thank-you received! Thank you from the bottom of our hearts for bearing arms in the protection of our families!

Connie N.

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

Dear Veteran, I’m sending my thanks to you for all you have done to protect our country. My father was a Col. in the Marine Corps in the Pacific for World War II. I know what a sacrifice he made for his country and his family. I’m sending my best wishes for you and for your health and welfare. Please take good care of yourself....

myrene o.

Palmyra, VA

Thank you for your service!

Katherine C.

Chesapeake, VA

THANK YOU SO MUCH FOR EVERYTHING

Autumn R.

Hugo, MN

Thank you for your service.

Ellie T.

Stillwater, MN

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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.