Veterans Day: What it means and how to mark it
Veterans Day falls on November 11 and traces back to the armistice that ended World War I at the 11th hour of the 11th day of the 11th month in 1918. In the United States the day was renamed Veterans Day in 1954 to honor all who served in the military. In Commonwealth countries the same date is usually called Remembrance Day or Armistice Day and is marked with poppies and a moment of silence at 11:00 a.m.
What’s the difference: Veterans Day vs Memorial Day
People often mix these two holidays. Veterans Day thanks and honors living veterans for their service. Memorial Day remembers those who died while serving. If you want to say thank you to a veteran, Veterans Day is the right time. If you are visiting a war cemetery or attending a memorial for the fallen, that’s usually Memorial Day or Remembrance Day ceremonies.
Practical ways to honor veterans today
Want to do something meaningful but simple? Here are clear, useful actions you can take:
- Attend a local ceremony or parade. Check community centers, city websites, or veteran groups for event times. Many towns hold brief services at 11:00 a.m.
- Observe the moment of silence at 11 a.m. for one or two minutes. It’s quick, respectful, and widely observed in many countries on Nov 11.
- Say thank you. Send a note, make a short phone call, or drop a message on social media to any veterans you know. A few honest words matter more than a long speech.
- Volunteer or donate. Local veteran charities, hospitals, and shelters welcome help. In the U.S. look up VA.gov or local chapters of the American Legion. In South Africa, the Department of Military Veterans and non-profits near you list volunteer opportunities.
- Hire or support veteran-owned businesses. If you run a business, consider training and hiring veterans. If you’re shopping, look for veteran-run stores or services.
- Learn and share local history. Many communities have veteran stories that don’t make headlines. Sharing a short profile or attending a talk helps keep those stories alive.
Small actions add up. Whether you wear a poppy, attend a short service, or help a veteran find local support, your effort shows respect and recognition. Check official resources in your country for events and services—local veterans’ organizations often have the most useful, up-to-date information.
Want a quick checklist to follow on the day? Attend or watch a ceremony, observe silence at 11:00, thank at least one veteran, and look up one way to support veterans in your community this year.
Honoring Heroes: Highlights from Duke University's Veterans Day Celebration
Duke University's 2024 Veterans Day ceremony paid tribute to U.S. military veterans. Held in Duke Chapel, the event featured music, reflections from leaders, and a speech by John Dailey, Duke's Chief of Police. Duke President Vincent Price and others expressed gratitude for veterans' sacrifices. The ceremony also highlighted the role of teamwork in military service and was attended by veterans from Duke Hospital's Clinical Engineering team.