United States observes Veterans Day on November 11

Veterans Day is a United States federal holiday observed on November 11 to honor all individuals who have served in the military. The date originates from the armistice that ended fighting in World War I, which took effect at the 11th hour of the 11th day of the 11th month in 1918.

Originally known as Armistice Day, the holiday was first commemorated nationally in 1919 following a proclamation by President Woodrow Wilson. Congress officially recognized the date in 1926 and established it as a legal federal holiday in 1938. Following the involvement of the United States in World War II and the Korean War, the scope of the observance expanded to include veterans of all conflicts. In 1954, Congress renamed the holiday from Armistice Day to Veterans Day.

As a federal holiday, normal operations for government offices, the U.S. Postal Service, and various federal services are suspended. In many communities, including Shreveport, local businesses and restaurant chains often provide special discounts or free meals to veterans, active-duty personnel, and military retirees to mark the occasion.