World War I, also known at the time as the “The Great War,”  ended when the treaty of Versailles was signed on June 28, 1919.  However the fighting was over seven months earlier, when temporary hostilities between Allied Powers and Germany went into effect- on the eleventh hour of the eleventh day of the eleventh month. This is why November 11, 1918 referred to as the date of the “ the war to end all wars. “

In November 1919, President Wilson proclaimed that November 11 was to be known as the first commemoration of Armistice Day, saying, “To us in America , the reflections of Armistice Day will be filled with solemn pride in the heroism of those who died in the country’s service and with gratitude for the victory, both because of the thing from which it has freed us and because of the opportunity it has given America to show her sympathy with peace and justice in the councils of the nations…”

An act was created and approved on May 13, 1938, stating that November 11th of every year would be a legal holiday, a day to be dedicated to the cause of world peace. Armistice Day was a day set aside to honor veterans of World War I. After World War II in 1954, which required the greatest amount of soldiers, sailors, airmen, and Marines in the history of an war that Nation had fought in, the 83rd Congress created the Act of 1938, striking down the use of the word “ Armistice “  and taking its place was “ Veterans. “  After the approval of legislation on June 1, 1954, November 11 became the day in which we celebrate and honor all the men and women who have fought for our country.

Decades later, Veterans Day continues to be celebrated on November 11, no matter the day of the week it falls under. The creation of the holiday not only preserves the historical significance, but it helps to celebrate and honor the veterans who served and sacrificed so much for their country.