United States observes Veterans Day with ceremonies and tributes

Veterans Day, observed annually on November 11, serves as a national day of remembrance for the men and women who have served in the United States Armed Forces. The holiday, which originated as Armistice Day to mark the end of World War I, was officially renamed in 1954 to honor all military veterans.

Across the country, various communities are hosting commemorative events. In Salinas, California, the 15th annual Monterey County Veterans Day Parade will feature retired Army Command Sgt. Maj. Sam Daniels as grand marshal. In Elkins, West Virginia, American Legion Post 29 will hold a ceremony at the All-Veterans Memorial, while Mississippi legislators are sponsoring a VIP dinner in Lincoln County to honor local veterans.

Many businesses and organizations are offering tributes to service members. Numerous restaurant chains, including Applebee’s, Chili’s, and Denny’s, are providing free meals or discounts to veterans and active-duty military personnel. Additionally, several museums and attractions, such as the Cincinnati Zoo and the Newport Aquarium, are offering complimentary admission to honor those who served.