Veterans Day 11/11/11

An armistice between German and Allied Nations ended World War I on November 11, 1918, after more than four years of bloodshed. The timing of this event poses great need for celebration this year in particular, as the war unofficially ended at the eleventh hour of the eleventh day, of the eleventh month (11:00, 11/11). The Treaty of Versailles was signed on June 28, 1919, officially ending the Great War.

American President Wilson proclaimed "Armistice Day" a holiday in November of 1919. Armistice Day was supposed to be a day filled with parades and meetings, beginning at eleven in the morning. On May 13, 1938, Armistice Day was proclaimed a national holiday, which President D. Eisenhower changed to "Veterans Day" on October 18 of that same year. Veterans Day is also referred to as Remembrance Day.

Veterans Day is always observed on November 11, regardless of the day of the week it falls on. This year, 11/11/11 is on a Friday.

As a national holiday, government businesses are closed to the public (the post office, banks, military bases, etc.). Most employers close to allow employees to honor their own personal heroes with family.

Parades kick-off throughout the nation, in the morning (not necessarily at 11 am, but for the most part), to honor and celebrate heroes lost during past wars, local military personnel, those currently fighting for our freedom, and the military as a whole.

Many Americans then visit the grave cites of fallen soldiers and loved ones. Some attend a social gathering of fellow Veterans at a Vet's Hall, such as the American Legion, Amvets, or VFW.

Weather permitting, of course, some host/attend a cookout. Flag cakes, burgers and dogs, macaroni or potato salad... Traditional American food is usually featured at Veteran's Day cookouts.

Some restaurants, both nationally-chained and local, provide a discount (or even free food) to Veterans. Applebees is known to provide a free meal to Veterans, all day long, on Veterans Day.

The most important part of this day is remembering those who fought and gave their lives in times of war, both foreign and domestic, past and present, and those who are still fighting and serving the great nation of U.S.A.

This hub, an introduction to Veterans Day, was crafted in honor of the author's own personal heroes, those past and present. Most importantly, her grandfathers, father, mother, aunts and uncles, cousins, friends, and brother, whom is currently serving.

I love and honor all of you, past and present, alike, and not just on Veteran's Day, but everyday. Thank you.

This time, instead of comments, please post the name or names of those whom you wish to honor.

I'd rather this serve a memorial - a thank you - than a way to get my name out there, or to make money. Please, feel free to post as many names as you would like. Everyone deserves it, undoubtedly.

*Foreign readers, please, please post your Heroes as well. This in an ode not only to American Veterans, but those worldwide.*